HERTFORD — Albemarle Commission Senior Nutrition Program announced today that it will be participating in the 16^th annual March for Meals – a month-long, nationwide celebration of Meal on Wheels and the homebound and vulnerable seniors who rely on its vital safety net. Albemarle Commission Senior Nutrition Program’s March for Meals celebration will include inviting our local, state and national celebrities and politicians.

”The services that we provide the seniors of northeastern NC are critical and the need is rapidly increasing,” said Laura Alvarico, Director of Area Agency on Aging of the Albemarle Commission. “Together, we can keep seniors living independently, healthier at home and feeling more connected to their community as they age.”

Since 2002, Meals on Wheels America has led the annual awareness campaign in an effort to fill the gap between the seniors served and those in need that is widening due to increased demand with a rapidly aging population combined with declining public and private resources, and rising food, transportation and operational costs. This March, hundreds of local Meals on Wheels programs, like Albemarle Commission Senior Nutrition Program, will reach out to their communities to build the support that will enable them to deliver nutritious meals, friendly visits and safety checks to America’s seniors all year long.

“March is a time for us all to rally around Meals on Wheels,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America. “Our ability to meet the needs of vulnerable seniors lies in the willingness and generosity of businesses, government and concerned individuals of all ages to contribute in their own way. It not only makes economic sense to enable seniors to stay healthy and safe at home, but it improves the health and vibrancy of our communities and our nation at large.”

For more information on how you can volunteer, contribute or speak out for the seniors in Northeastern NC and across the country, visit www.marchformeals.com.