By:Betty KankamBoaduPosted on:Tuesday, July 9, 2024. ATHENS, Ohio WOUB It s turkey! shouted Teddy Star Williams to her friend, who was unsure about one of the meals served at the senior cookout last week at the Athens Community Center. She was not going to miss it for anything else. I m a night owl. So, I can stay up all night and sleep in the morning, Williams said. So, when I set an alarm to get up to be here at a certain time instead of sleeping, that s a big deal. . Having lunch at the senior center has become part of her day since she learned of it last October. She had gone to the center with her brother for another reason and learned of the free lunch. I come almost every day, Monday to Friday, unless there was a period where I was sick for a couple of weeks, she said. The free lunch program for seniors is an initiative of Athens Congregate Dining and the United Seniors of Athens. It exists to support seniors who do not qualify for federal food assistance. A box of milk and a plate with a burger, corn and beans served at the senior cookout. Betty KankamBoadu  WOUBLast Wednesday s gathering was to usher in the Fourth of July with food and fellowship and a little twist: American flag pinwheels and napkins. But Williams did not need an excuse to come. I wanted to come here and be with people. It s such a delight to eat with other folks, Williams said. I don t get an appetite unless I am around people, which sounds kind of weird. . Her situation is not unique. Valerie Addis, public relations coordinator for Hocking Athens Perry Community Action, better known as HAPCAP, said many seniors cannot meet with people and see their friends and family often, which is why this program exists. They can come and enjoy a meal together and talk and get to relate to each other and speak about the joys in their lives and the challenges they are facing, she said.
Senior citizens in Athens, Ohio, benefit from a free lunch program organized by Athens Congregate Dining and the United Seniors of Athens, aimed at supporting those who do not qualify for federal food assistance. The program offers meals and a chance for seniors to socialize and enjoy each other's company, providing a sense of community and companionship that many participants appreciate. The gatherings also include special events, such as the recent Fourth of July celebration featuring patriotic decorations and a variety of food options.