Cayuga Health Announces Partnership With Foodnet Meals on Wheels – Expands Access to Nutritious Meals For Older Adults in Tompkins County

Cayuga Health, a member of Centralus Health, has announced a new partnership with Foodnet Meals on Wheels. The partnership will expand access to nutritious meals as well as community connections for older adults within Tompkins County. Cayuga Health says starting on Thursday, October 23, community dining lunches will begin at their location at the Shops at Ithaca Mall in Lansing.

Cayuga Health says this initiative will build on a shared commitment to health equity and improving social determinants of health, especially for the aging population in the area.

“This collaboration with Foodnet aligns seamlessly with Cayuga Health’s mission to provide integrated, community-centered care,” said Lara Parrilla, Director of Health Equity for Cayuga Health Partners. “By opening our space at The Shops at Ithaca Mall, we are helping create a welcoming environment where older adults can access healthy food, meaningful conversation, and critical health resources close to home.”

According to Cayuga Health, Foodnet Meals on Wheels is the local organization who prepares and delivers hot meals directly to clients within Tompkins County. The organization offers a Senior Nutrition Program which includes the Community Dining Program via a contract with Tompkins County through their Office for the Aging.

“The Community Dining program provides space and healthy food for our older neighbors from throughout Tompkins County to enjoy a meal and socialize with others,” said Aly Evans, Executive Director of Foodnet Meals on Wheels. “Cayuga Health is a fantastic partner in this endeavor because we share the goal of improving social determinants of health for the communities that we serve.”

On Thursday, October 23rd, the weekly community dining will be located at the former Sears Department store at The Shops at Ithaca Mall, near the food court. Doors will open at 11am with lunch being served between noon and 12:30pm. The lunch will be open to anyone aged 60 or older, but Cayuga Health says advanced registration is required with no drop-ins allowed.

Those interested may register by calling Foodnet at (607) 266-9553 by 3pm the Tuesday prior to the meal. Cayuga Health says the meal includes 2% milk, with skim and Lactaid options available upon request. There is no charge for eligible participants, though voluntary and confidential contributions are welcomed to support program sustainability.