The Berks County Area Agency on Aging will implement a new home-delivered meals model beginning July 1, replacing its daily ready-to-eat meal service with frozen meals delivered twice each week.
County officials said the change is designed to increase flexibility for older adults while improving meal safety and service reliability throughout Berks County.
The updated program is being launched in partnership with Berks Encore, Boyertown Area Multi-Service, and Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank. Under the new model, meals will be prepared by Helping Harvest’s Community Kitchen, while Berks Encore and Boyertown Area Multi-Service will continue coordinating meal deliveries.
According to the agency, frozen meals provide several advantages, including maintaining freshness, reducing food waste, and allowing participants to heat and enjoy meals when it is most convenient for them. Officials said the approach can be particularly beneficial for older adults with varying schedules or specific health needs.
“Providing frozen meals twice a week helps us deliver the same high-quality nutrition our residents rely on, while improving reliability and strengthening our service model,” said Jessica Jones, director of the Berks County Area Agency on Aging. “This change also ensures we can continue meal delivery safely during weather disruptions or other unexpected challenges.”
The agency said the revised program will continue to provide nutritious meals that meet state and federal dietary standards and are reviewed by dietitians. In addition to meal delivery, staff and volunteers will continue conducting regular well-checks and maintaining personal contact with participants to help support their safety and identify emerging needs.
Officials said the new system will also help ensure consistent access to food during inclement weather or other situations that could interrupt daily delivery schedules.
The Home-Delivered Meals Program is available to Berks County residents age 60 and older who have difficulty preparing meals independently or leaving their homes.
Individuals interested in learning more about eligibility or enrolling in the program can contact the Berks County Area Agency on Aging at 610-478-6500 or visit www.berkspa.gov/departments/aging.