West Chester, Pa (November 13, 2024) – Brandywine Valley Active Aging’s Coatesville Campus is renovating its commercial kitchen to offer affordable meals to more senior citizens thanks to state funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The $100,000 in grant funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, will be used to upgrade the facility’s existing commissary. The improvements are expected to enhance efficiency by an estimated 85 percent.
“Since the pandemic, Brandywine Valley Active Aging has seen a 235% increase in the noon meal program – serving nearly 300 chef-inspired and freshly prepared lunches each day. The funds awarded will see a long-term impact in improving the quality of life for older adults throughout Chester County,” said Bill Pierce, BVAA Executive Director.
To help seniors maintain a healthy weight and access balanced meals, BVAA offers nutritious, reduced-cost lunch options Monday through Friday.
“I appreciate the staff and volunteers who support our older friends and neighbors at Brandywine Valley Active Aging and all our senior community centers throughout Chester County and Pennsylvania,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Aging and Youth Committee. “This investment will ensure that more senior citizens in the Coatesville area can access healthy, affordable, and delicious meals for years to come.”
In 2021, the Coatesville and Downingtown Senior Centers merged to form BVAA, a nonprofit organization that serves as the leading resource for older adults in the greater Coatesville and Downingtown area and operates campuses in both communities.
In addition to offering meals and supplementary nutrition, BVAA provides opportunities for socialization, exercise, art and educational programs, and other services that aim to enrich and enhance the health, wellness, dignity, and overall quality of the life for older adults.
For more information about BVAA, visit bvactiveaging.org
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