newsletter september 2015

3
Ribbon Cutting The McKissick Center for Senior Wellness is officially open! Home for the newly established Pickens County Meals on Wheels kitchen, its home-delivered meal program, and the Young at Heart dining and activity program, the center is a bustle of activity. An official grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was held July 24, 2015. Windows of the new center glistened as dignitaries and special guests gathered at the entrance to the newly renovated facility in honor of this historic event. Notable guests included: SC Lt. Governor, Henry McMaster; Director of the Office on Aging, Yancey McGill; McKissick Family Foundation member, Robert Thomas; Senator Larry Martin; Representative Neal Collins and Pickens County Councilman, G. Neil Smith. Remarks by Lt. Governor Henry McMaster summarized the impact the McKissick Center will have on providing cost- effective care for seniors in Pickens County. “The Senior population in South Carolina will double by 2030. Currently, we’re not adequately prepared for this increase in demand for services,” says McMaster. “The primary goal of the Office on Aging is to strengthen the effectiveness of senior centers in our state. We know that the Office on Aging’s investment in this project will help Pickens County seniors live active, healthy, meaningful lives while remaining in their own homes.” The organization began exploring the idea of operating its own kitchen in 2010 when the School District of Pickens County began its building campaign. This vision became a reality under the leadership of County Councilman G. Neil Smith. In 2013 Pickens County Council unanimously voted to deed the former Liberty Middle School kitchen and cafeteria building to Meals on Wheels. The property consisted of a commercial quality kitchen, a cafeteria and four classrooms on a lower level. PCMOW launched a $1.258 million – “Step Up to the Plate” - capital campaign to support its strategic move to renovate the former Liberty Middle School cafeteria and create a permanent endowment to help the organization sustain its growth in the coming years. To date, the campaign has fully funded the building project and the agency continues to work toward the completion of its endowment. The overall project has been supported through a combination of private gifts from the Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program, Nalley Charitable Foundation, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Pickens County United Way, Duke Energy Foundation, The Grumpy Old Men of Six Mile, Members of The Reserve at Lake Keowee, PCMOW board members, staff and many, many individuals. These private sources of funding, along with assistance from the City of Easley, the City of Liberty and investments from Pickens County Council and the SC Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging’s - Permanent Improvement Project grant, have helped to make substantial progress in funding the innovative project which focuses on the long term needs of our senior community. Going forward, the McKissick Center will serve as a focal point for senior services and provide a continuum of care for active, aging and homebound individuals by providing daily meals, social, cultural and educational activities that are designed around the needs and interest of our seniors in mind. Grumpy Old Men Exceed Goal! A group of men informally known as “The Grumpy Old Men” have stepped up to the plate to help Pickens County Meals on Wheels raise the necessary funds to purchase the pots, pans, and essential utensils needed to furnish the kitchen of the newly renovated McKissick Center for Senior Wellness. Under the leadership of John Wade, PCMOW board member, the group set out with a noble goal of raising $7,500. Named the “Silver Spoons Campaign,” their efforts consisted of individual donations and appeals, a breakfast fundraiser, a boot drive (at intersection of Hwy 133 and Hwy 183) conducted by Chief Michael Barrett and members of Six Mile Fire Department and a yard sale that netted over $4,000. The Grumpy Old Men surpassed every expectation by raising a grand sum of $11,461! A plaque commemorating the names of all donors to this project will be placed at the McKissick Center. Notable members who helped with this project include: Mayor Roy Stoddard of Six Mile, Representative Gary Clary, former Representative B.R. Skelton, Ken Ellison, Jimmy Hayes, B.J. Skelton, Wilt Stephens, “Dude” McAbee, Steve Howard, Eddie Durham, Tony Ellison, Charlie Yongue, Mac Bradshaw, Bud Alexander, Mike Alexander, Hueston Merck, Tom Smith Carl Whitaker and John Wade. Pickens County Meals on Wheels Newsletter/September 2015 Paving the Way to a Better Future in Pickens County Through the Pickens County Meals on Wheels’ Paving the Way Program, the community is invited to help us build for the future and provide hope for our disabled, elderly and homebound elderly neighbors. For just $100 you can choose a message to be engraved on one of the 4 x 8 bricks paving the courtyard of the new McKissick Center for Senior Wellness. Recognize a special person in your life. Honor someone special. Cherish the memory of a loved one. Celebrate a special occasion. Your contribution now will help create a permanent endowment that will enable us to serve our elderly and disabled neighbors for many years to come. Orders can be placed through our website www.pcmow.org . Reserve at Lake Keowee Members Continue to Support Meals on Wheels We would like to extend our utmost thanks to members of The Reserve at Lake Keowee for their tremendous volunteer and financial support of our program through the years. Under the leadership of PCMOW board member, Debbie Baughman, individuals from The Reserve contributed $8,300 for the purpose of purchasing the necessary furnishings for the McKissick Center. These items include desks for computer lab/classroom, board table and chairs, couches and chairs for coffee lounge, office furniture and special seating for designated quiet areas. A plaque commemorating the names of all donors to this project will be placed at the McKissick Center. Special thanks to: Bob and Jen Bacon, Dave and Debbie Baughman, Randy and Becky Bly, Robert and Eydie Clement, Jim and Marion Currow, Ron and Linda Davis, Barb Evans, Kevin and Holly Greenwalt, Gary and Jan Haake, Paula Hinger, John and Nancy Howard, Roger and Sue Joseph, Mike and Nancy Kennedy, Luis and Connie Leon, Bryan and LouAnn Lewis, Dan and Diana McGonigle, Larry and Joyce Nelson, John and Mary O’Connell, Mark and Karen Schafer, John and Renee Stanton and Buddy and Liz Thompson.

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Ribbon Cutting The McKissick Center for Senior Wellness is officially open! Home for the newly established Pickens County Meals on Wheels kitchen, its home-delivered meal program, and the Young at Heart dining and activity program, the center is a bustle of activity.

An official grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was held July 24, 2015. Windows of the new center glistened as dignitaries and special guests gathered at the entrance to the newly renovated facility in honor of this historic event. Notable guests included: SC Lt. Governor, Henry McMaster; Director of the Office on Aging, Yancey McGill; McKissick Family Foundation member, Robert Thomas; Senator Larry Martin; Representative Neal Collins and Pickens County Councilman, G. Neil Smith.

Remarks by Lt. Governor Henry McMaster summarized the impact the McKissick Center will have on providing cost-effective care for seniors in Pickens County. “The Senior population in South Carolina will double by 2030. Currently, we’re not adequately prepared for this increase in demand for services,” says McMaster. “The primary goal of the Office on Aging is to strengthen the effectiveness of senior centers in our state. We know that the Office on Aging’s investment in this project will help Pickens County seniors live active, healthy, meaningful lives while remaining in their own homes.”

The organization began exploring the idea of operating its own kitchen in 2010 when the School District of Pickens County began its building campaign. This vision became a reality under the leadership of County Councilman G. Neil Smith. In 2013 Pickens County Council unanimously voted to deed the former Liberty Middle School kitchen and cafeteria building to Meals on Wheels. The property consisted of a commercial quality kitchen, a cafeteria and four classrooms on a lower level.

PCMOW launched a $1.258 million – “Step Up to the Plate” - capital campaign to support its strategic move to renovate the former Liberty Middle School cafeteria and create a permanent endowment to help the organization sustain its growth in the coming years. To date, the campaign has fully funded the building project and the agency continues to work toward the completion of its endowment.

The overall project has been supported through a combination of private gifts from the Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program, Nalley Charitable Foundation, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Pickens County United Way, Duke Energy Foundation, The Grumpy Old Men of Six Mile, Members of The Reserve at Lake Keowee, PCMOW board members, staff and many, many individuals. These private sources of funding, along with assistance from the City of Easley, the City of Liberty and investments from Pickens County Council and the SC Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging’s -

Permanent Improvement Project grant, have helped to make substantial progress in funding the innovative project which focuses on the long term needs of our senior community.

Going forward, the McKissick Center will serve as a focal point for senior services and provide a continuum of care for active, aging and homebound individuals by providing daily meals, social, cultural and educational activities that are designed around the needs and interest of our seniors in mind.

Grumpy Old Men Exceed Goal!A group of men informally known as “The Grumpy Old Men” have stepped up to the plate to help Pickens County Meals on Wheels raise the necessary funds to purchase the pots, pans, and essential utensils needed to furnish the kitchen of the newly renovated McKissick Center for Senior Wellness.

Under the leadership of John Wade, PCMOW board member, the group set out with a noble goal of raising $7,500. Named the “Silver Spoons Campaign,” their efforts consisted of individual donations and appeals, a breakfast fundraiser, a boot drive (at intersection of Hwy 133 and Hwy 183) conducted by Chief Michael Barrett and members of Six Mile Fire Department and a yard sale that netted over $4,000. The Grumpy Old Men surpassed every expectation by raising a grand sum of $11,461!

A plaque commemorating the names of all donors to this project will be placed at the McKissick Center. Notable members who helped with this project include: Mayor Roy Stoddard of Six Mile, Representative Gary Clary, former Representative B.R. Skelton, Ken Ellison, Jimmy Hayes, B.J. Skelton, Wilt Stephens, “Dude” McAbee, Steve Howard, Eddie Durham, Tony Ellison, Charlie Yongue, Mac Bradshaw, Bud Alexander, Mike Alexander, Hueston Merck, Tom Smith Carl Whitaker and John Wade.

Pickens County Meals on Wheels Newsletter/September 2015

Paving the Way to a Better Future in Pickens County Through the Pickens County Meals on Wheels’ Paving the Way Program, the community is invited to help us build for the future and provide hope for our disabled, elderly and homebound elderly neighbors.

For just $100 you can choose a message to be engraved on one of the 4 x 8 bricks paving the courtyard of the new McKissick Center for Senior Wellness. Recognize a special person in your life. Honor someone special. Cherish the memory of a loved one. Celebrate a special occasion.

Your contribution now will help create a permanent endowment that will enable us to serve our elderly and disabled neighbors for many years to come. Orders can be placed through our website www.pcmow.org .

Reserve at Lake Keowee Members Continue to Support Meals on WheelsWe would like to extend our utmost thanks to members of The Reserve at Lake Keowee for their tremendous volunteer and financial support of our program through the years. Under the leadership of PCMOW board member, Debbie Baughman, individuals from The Reserve contributed $8,300 for the purpose of purchasing the necessary furnishings for the McKissick Center. These items include desks for computer lab/classroom, board table and chairs, couches and chairs for coffee lounge, office furniture and special seating for designated quiet areas.

A plaque commemorating the names of all donors to this project will be placed at the McKissick Center. Special thanks to: Bob and Jen Bacon, Dave and Debbie Baughman, Randy and Becky Bly, Robert and Eydie Clement, Jim and Marion Currow, Ron and Linda Davis, Barb Evans, Kevin and Holly Greenwalt, Gary and Jan Haake, Paula Hinger, John and Nancy Howard, Roger and Sue Joseph, Mike and Nancy Kennedy, Luis and Connie Leon, Bryan and LouAnn Lewis, Dan and Diana McGonigle, Larry and Joyce Nelson, John and Mary O’Connell, Mark and Karen Schafer, John and Renee Stanton and Buddy and Liz Thompson.

2015 Board of DirectorsDwayne Goodwin, Chairman

Les Hendricks, Vice-Chairman

Tripp Martin, Treasurer

Anna Goodwin, Secretary

Debbie Baughman

Michael Boyer

Drake Curry

Harry Curtis

Kent Dykes

Melanie Fee

John Wade

Henry Wilson

Sam Wyche

Annie BaneDennis BryantArthur Campbell Felton Crews Easley Fire Department Easley Police Department Sheryl Evans Ann Haefner Kristin Hart

Branham Hedrick Michael Hedrick Marcia Kelley Sheba King-Dunson Debbie Kirkley Anthony “Tony “ Lilley, Barbara Lunsford Bradley (Brad) Markham Joy Merck

Robert ”Robbie” Miller, Jr., Angela Moore Terry Moore Christa C. Prevatte Nan Stuckey April Villa Kyle Worm Mae Anderson Bill Bearss

Kathy Bearss Pat Bowland Haley Brimmer Alice CastroDuke Energy VolunteersAlicia ErckmannFrank ErckmannJennings FarrKara Gold

Pam Hitt Dell Holcombe Andrew King David Martin Michael Medlin Michael Mickens Sheila Miranda Katrina Murphree Donnie Nations

Lauree Owen Lisa Petteys Betty Robinson Mark Shawley Jackie Smith Amanda Sosbee Ray Tinkler Samantha Yates Janice Baxter

Brookdale JoAnn Chapman Serina Durrah Nancy Martin Mike Neely Tommy Readett Brent Richmond Kanisha Williams Allen Derham

Jessica Hanvey Kody Hanvey Michael Harhai Pamela Lee Stephanie M. Neely William M. Neely Kristie Read Hector M. Valentine Jr.

New Volunteers

Valerie Meador, Nutrition and Wellness Services Coordinator “I am very grateful to be able to help provide nourishing meals to homebound and active seniors

in Pickens County.  It can be a challenge some days, but knowing that the food we prepare is fresh, flavorful and helps our seniors live healthier lives is a wonderful reward.”

Marsha Robertson Program Coordinator “I am encouraged daily as I watch the Young at Heart members grow into a strong family of support and care for

one another.  They are like a patchwork quilt-each with a different background and story—weaving themselves into a beautiful family.”

Rosa Seay Volunteer Coordinator “If we treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile, remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.”    – Linda Ellis

Melissa Poole Client Service Coordinator “I am happy to be able to help so many seniors gain access to the resources they need.”

Booker Pryor Chef “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa

Libby Rogers Sous Chef “I feel like I have hit the lottery working here. I love what we do here.”

Calvin Rogers Transporter

Michael Hedrick Transporter

Mary Mansell Transporter

A Word From Your DirectorThe past several years have involved tremendous growth and change for our organization. The involvement of our board, donors, volunteers, staff and the community at large have been instrumental in establishing The McKissick Center for Senior Wellness. Together, we have created a facility that will strengthen the largest safety net for seniors in our community. This programmatic transformation has been an incredible experience. I have never felt more confident in our mission and the impact our programs make every day. Daily, I am awed by the effect that a simple act of kindness can have on an individual, and I am thankful to be of service. Every individual we serve has a unique story. While our programs are centered around providing meals to seniors, this is just the beginning.

Michael had only come to the center for two meals, when he found a circle of friends who care for him and encourage him on his journey.  He has commented several times that coming daily to the center has given him a reason to get up each morning.  Michael participates in the exercise classes and games.  He is always eager to lend a hand, helping others who are less mobile to get around the center.James sought the help of Meals on Wheels to help him provide for his wife Mary. Diagnosed with dementia Mary required exhaustive care. James was having difficulty preparing their meals and in turn controlling his own diabetes. At the time they requested service, James didn’t realize the difference it would make in their lives. He credits the meals with not only alleviating the task of meal preparation, but also helping him control his blood sugar levels. Volunteers and donors ensure we can deliver the vital ingredients that help keep seniors healthy, safe and independent. If you are looking for a way to get involved and/or give back to your community, look no further. When it comes to serving seniors – those young at heart, the sick and the frail there is no better place to turn than Pickens County Meals on Wheels. “A simple act of caring creates an endless ripple that comes back to you.” – UnknownMeta Bowers, Executive Director

ProgramsThe McKissick Center for Senior Wellness is a community focal point that exclusively focuses on the three leading threats of aging: hunger, isolation and loss of independence. We are committed to providing quality meals and programs to help active, aging and homebound seniors in Pickens County live meaningful and engaged lives.

Services are available to all Pickens County residents. Program eligibility varies and enrollment is open to those 60 years or older regardless of income. All clients are asked to share in the cost of their meals and/or activities. Services will not be denied to anyone who is unable to contribute. Our case manager works with each individual to determine a level of support that meets their budget. All contributions help us provide services to all that need them.

Darden’s Restaurants Community Grants We’re proud to be a recipient of Darden’s Restaurants Community Grants program. We are proud to partner with our local LongHorn Steakhouse in Easley, SC for supporting the important work we do to feed and care for seniors in our community. A generous $1,000 grant will enable us to purchase and deliver over 200 meals to homebound seniors in the Easley area!

Upstate Senior Network We are proud to have been selected as the nonprofit charity of the year by the Pickens/Oconee Chapter of the Upstate Senior Network. As a coalition of senior service industry

professionals, we are committed to working together and making a difference in the lives of seniors in our communities.

St. Jude We are honored to recognize St. Jude Medical as a Community Champion! Since 1997, they have delivered meals and companionship in Pickens County. St. Jude Medical is proud to support events that promote healthy lifestyles, create awareness of the prevention of health issues and support local needs in communities around the world. And, we are proud to partner with such a wonderful team!

The Cliffs at Lake Keowee Vineyards Many thanks to the members of The Cliffs at Lake Keowee Vineyards for hosting a wine tasting and wine auction benefitting Meals on Wheels. Organized by Jeff Putman and Sue Grill, the event raised $2,719!

STEEP Nora Grumbles and Cathie Mills, of the Pickens County Career and Technology STEEP Program have taken service learning to a new level. Junior and Senior students are able to experience different types of jobs by working in a variety of settings for a few hours each day.  Examples are stocking and other duties at Ingles grocery stores, working in the Harcombe Dining Hall at Clemson, and kitchen prep and packaging work at McClain Elementary and in the McKissick Center kitchen.  Many students end up with full time employment by the time they complete their studies at the Pickens County Career and Technology Center.

Baptist Easley Hospital Better Choices. Better Health - Christy Porter and Becky Davis from Baptist Easley Hospital conducted a six week session sharing tips and information to help clients make better lifestyle choices improve their health.

Jeff Duncan We were honored to have Congressman Jeff Duncan make a special visit to recognize volunteers and deliver meals in Easley. Joined by SC Representative Neal Collins, Duncan and Collins spent

time learning about the program’s impact in the community.

Reflecting on this experience, Congressman Duncan remarked “I had the opportunity to see the great work being done by the community volunteers with the Pickens County Meals on Wheels program. With the simple act of bringing a meal to senior citizens, Meals on Wheels provides a nurturing connection with volunteers who check on their wellbeing and bring the connection of community into their homes. The program is an act of pure charity. I saw a warmth brought into the homes of senior citizens where the meal was just the first step. It leads to the wellbeing of mind, body and spirit that is crucial for all around health. Meals on Wheels represents the volunteerism that is critical to the future of all our communities; in fact, it is the foundation that is makes community possible.”

Duke Energy’s Day of Service In collaboration with Hands on Greenville and the Pickens County United Way, Duke Energy employees conducted a day of service project to prepare courtyard of The McKissick Center. Duke Energy provided funding for all the necessary soil amendments, plants and furniture to make the patio area an inviting place for members to congregate outdoors. On September 23rd, Duke

Energy volunteers took drab to fabulous as they installed trees, shrubs and flowers and assembled benches and bistro sets. Special thanks to Mulch Mart of Easley for providing mulch for this project.

Easley Police Department Volunteers Officers Jennifer McKenzie, MPO Brad Smith and Detective Jon Hamby (not pictured) deliver Meals on Wheels to approximately 13 locations every Monday.

Easley Fire Department Volunteers The Easley Fire Department volunteers to drive a route on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. A crew of 30 Firemen

share this responsibility on a rotating basis.  As a group they are eager to be of service to the community and to let the community know that the Fire Department is a vital support to community needs.

Pickens Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month Pickens County Meals on Wheels was honor to be recognized as the August Pickens Chamber Member of the Month.

Duke Energy’s Residential Neighborhood Program On September 15th Sue Dinnsen kicked off Duke Energy’s Residential Neighborhood Program. The program is a FREE walkthrough energy assessment and improvement program for qualified customers within specific areas of Liberty, SC. The walkthrough assessment will show residents where their home is wasting energy.

During the FREE walkthrough assessment, Duke Energy will also give you up to 16 energy-saving products and services (valued at $210) that could help you save money on your electric bill.

Lunch and Learn - September 16, 2015 at 11 am Dr. Michael Boyer of Upstate Bone and Joint spoke on knee osteoarthritis as part of the McKissick Center’s focus on Fall Prevention Month.

Fire Safety with the Easley Fire Department - September 30, 2015 at 11 am This session introduces the National 2015 Fire Prevention Week coming up on October 4-10. The 2015 Fire Prevention Theme is “Hear the Beep Where You Sleep. Every bedroom needs a working smoke alarm!” Learn all about smoke alarm safety on September 20 with members from the Easley Fire Department.

Sole Hope Project—The Young at Heart Senior Activity Center, with help from the Easley junior Women’s Club, are holding shoe cutting sessions to support the efforts of Sole Hope.   Sole Hope is an organization that offers hope, healthier lives and freedom from foot related diseases through education, jobs and medical relief for children and adults in Uganda.  The Easley Junior Women’s Club provided the denim material(from old jeans) and the senior adults at the Young at Heart Senior Center are tracing and cutting the patterns for shoes.  The patterns will be sent to Sole Hope where local Ugandans are hired to make the shoes that will be given to children and adults who have suffered from foot infected diseases.  Learn more about Sole Hope at www.solehope.org.

Want to get involved in the project?  Come join us at the center around the table of fellowship to trace and cut patterns and/or make a donation to sponsor a pair of shoes.  Donations help to supply the employment of the local Ugandans who work in the factory to make the shoes.

Contact Marsha Robertson at the McKissick Center for more information at [email protected]  or 864.855.3770 extension 5.

Staff

Home Delivered Meals: Home-delivered meals are crucial to helping people maintain their nutritional health, feel connected in the community and continue living safely in their own homes. Our corps of caring volunteers deliver 300 meals across 22 routes Monday – Friday between 11am-1pm. Each delivery provides a nutritious meal, a friendly visit and safety-check.

Eligibility: a person must be homebound, be unable to prepare a nutritious meal, and not have anyone able to prepare a nutritious meal on a regular basis.

Young at Heart Dining and Activity:Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. The Young at Heart Dining and Activity Center provides the perfect place for active seniors to dine for lunch and participate in a variety of planned activities such as structured fitness; computer, music and dance classes, educational programs and much more.

Membership: $20/individual or $30/couple. Lunchtime meals are served at The McKissick Center Monday – Friday between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. Meals are $3 and must be reserved in advance. Reservations can be made at the center or by calling 864-855-3770, ext. 5. Transportation is available.

More Than a MealThe More Than Meals pilot research study, funded by AARP Foundation and conducted by researchers at Brown University, implemented a groundbreaking approach to investigating the impact of meal service delivery on homebound seniors receiving Meals on Wheels. The study’s findings validate what we’ve all known for decades anecdotally through firsthand experience: that Meals on Wheels does in fact deliver so much more than just a meal. Learn more at www. mealsonwheelsamerica.org/theissue/facts-resources/more-than-a-meal.

A SENIOR WHO LIVES ALONE AND RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS IS LESS LIKELY TO WORRY ABOUT BEING ABLE TO REMAIN AT HOME AND TO HAVE

FEELINGS OF ISOLATION AND LONELINESS.

A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS EXPERIENCES THE GREATEST IMPROVEMENTS IN HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE COMPARED TO A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES FROZEN, WEEKLY-DELIVERED MEALS OR NO MEALS AT ALL.

REDUCTIONSIN THE RATE

OF FALLS

IMPROVEMENTIN MENTAL HEALTH

(I.E., ANXIETY)

IMPROVEMENTIN SELF-RATED

HEALTH

REDUCTIONSIN WORRYINGABOUT BEING

ABLE TO REMAINAT HOME

IMPROVEMENTIN FEELINGS OF ISOLATION AND

LONELINESS

71% OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS SELF-REPORT FAIR OR POOR HEALTH COMPARED TO 26% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

NEARLY TWICE AS MANY SENIORS ON MEALS ON WHEELS WAITING LISTS REPORT DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY COMPARED TO AVERAGE SENIORS.

79% OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS INDICATE THAT THEIR FEAR OF FALLING LIMITED THEIR ACTIVITIES COMPARED TO 43% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

87% OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS ARE PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO SHOP FOR GROCERIES COMPARED TO 23% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES OR REQUESTS MEALS ON WHEELS SERVICES IS SIGNIFICANTLY MORE VULNERABLE THAN THE AVERAGE AMERICAN SENIOR.

WHEN COMPARED WITH A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES JUST FROZEN MEALS ONLY ONCE A WEEK, A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS IS MORE LIKELY TO:

NOTE THAT THE MEALS RESULTED IN

LESS LONELINESS

REPORT THAT THEMEALS HELPED THEM TO

EAT HEALTHIER

ATTRIBUTE THE MEALS TO MAKING THEM

FEEL SAFER

THE IMPACT OF MEAL SERVICE DELIVERY ON THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF ADULTS 60 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

M OR E T H A N A M E A L

A N E W R E S E A R C H S T U DY F R O M M E A L S O N W H E E L S A M E R I C A

More than a Meal® is a registered trademark of Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland, Inc. and is being used under a license agreement from such entity.

© 2015 MEALS ON WHEELS AMERICA

Meals on Wheels America’s 15-week study involving more than 600 seniors participants was conducted by Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research and funded by AARP Foundation.

For more information, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/MTAM.

Hello In There John Prine

We had an apartment in the cityMe and Loretta liked living thereIt’d been years since the kids had grownA life of their own, left us aloneJohn and Linda live in OmahaAnd Joe is somewhere on the roadWe lost Davy in the Korean warAnd I still don’t know what for, don’t matter anymoreYa’ know that old trees just grow strongerAnd old rivers grow wilder every dayOld people just grow lonesomeWaiting for someone to say, “Hello in there, hello”Me and Loretta, we don’t talk much moreShe sits and stares through the back door screenAnd all the news just repeats itselfLike some forgotten dream that we’ve both seenSomeday I’ll go and call up RudyWe worked together at the factoryBut what could I say if he asks, “What’s new?”Nothing, what’s with you? Nothing much to doYa’ know that old trees just grow strongerAnd old rivers grow wilder every dayOld people just grow lonesomeWaiting for someone to say, “Hello in there, hello”So if you’re walking down the street sometimeAnd spot some hollow ancient eyesPlease don’t just pass ‘em by and stareAs if you didn’t care, say, “Hello in there, hello”

Community Contributions

Our seniors need you! Our program is growing at an unprecedented rate! We have received 96 new requests for service since 7/1. This is more than double the number of requests we typically see. Volunteers are a crucial lifeline in our mission to keep seniors healthy, safe and independent.

By volunteering one hour once a week, once a month or somewhere in between, you can make a difference. Find out more: join us weekly at 1:30 PM each Thursday; 349 Edgemont Avenue or contact Marsha Robertson at 864.855.3770 ext. 5

Volunteer Opportunities (Monday through Friday):

• MealDeliveryDrivers (11am – 1pm)

• KitchenVolunteers (8:30am – 11am) and (12:30pm – 2:30pm)

• YoungatHeartActivity Volunteers (9am – 2pm)

• OfficeVolunteers (9am – 2pm)

P.O.Box184•Easley,SC29641ph.864-855-3770•www.pcmow.org

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Stay Connected @pcmow

Upcoming Events at the McKissick Center for Senior WellnessFallsPreventionAwarenessDay-September23, 2015 at 11am

The 8th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day (FPAD) will be observed on September 23, 2015—the first day of fall. The event seeks to raise awareness about how to prevent fall-related injuries among older adults.

Melissa Martino, Director of Rehab for Cannon Memorial Hospital will

be discussing the easy & inexpensive things that can be done to ensure that your home is safe & how to prevent falls in the home.  She will also show some exercise techniques that are good for all ages but especially our baby boomers to allow for increasing or maintaining good musculature which leads to good safety and increasing balance. 

Clergy Luncheon - October 22, 2015 at 12pm

We are inviting all Pickens County Clergy to join us for lunch and fellowship at The McKissick Center for Senior Wellness. Come learn more about our programs, services and ways we can strengthen the mind, bodies and souls of seniors in Pickens County. Please help us get the word out and share this invitation with members of the Pickens County Clergy who you think might be interested in attending. RSVP by 10/14 to [email protected] or calling 864-855-3770 ext. 5.

VolunteerAppreciationLuncheon - November 10, 2015 at 11:30am

Save the Date because it’s time to celebrate! Volunteers do not seek recognition for what they do, yet they deserve to be recognized for ALL that they do! Volunteers are the critical ingredient to the success of our program. They are the eyes, ears and backbone of the organization. They go the extra mile delivering meals, smiles and peace of mind to those in need.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

*Reservations are required for lunch. See Program Coordinator (Marsha) to make res-

ervation.

1

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

2

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Music/Games

11:00 Lunch and Learn--Nutrition

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

3

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11:30 Chicken Foot

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

4

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Games

11-11:30 Senior Moments

Dr. Owen Robertson

Easley First Baptist

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

7

Labor Day-

Center

Closed

8

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

12:30—Movie

9

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Music/Games

11:00 Lunch and Learn

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

10

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11:30 Chicken Foot

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

12:30 – Sole Hope Shoes

11

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Games

11-11:30 Senior Moments

Rev. Johnny Littleton

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

14

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

15

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

16

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Music/Games

11:00 Lunch and Learn—Dr. Boyer

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

12:30—Sole Hope Shoes

17

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11:30 Chicken Foot

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

18

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Games

11-11:30 Senior Moments

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

21

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

22

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

23

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10—Fall Prevention-Cannon Hospital

11–11:30 Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

24

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11:30 Chicken Foot

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

12:30--Movie

25

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Games

11-11:30 Senior Moments

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

28

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-10:45 Bingo

10:45-11:30 Heart Song-

Easley First Baptist

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

29

9-10 Zumba & Stretching

10-11 Bingo

11-11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

30

9-10 Arthritis Exercise

10-11 Fire Safety-Easley Fire Dept.

11–11:30 Mae’s Music

11:30-12:30 Lunch*

Coffee

Available Daily

8:30AM-2:30PM

Billiards

Daily

8:30-11:30 AM

and

12:30-2:30PM

The sixth annual Wings and Wheels for Meals, presented by Keowee Flyers, exceeded its fundraising goal of $13,500, netting a record sum of $22,503! Ross Russo, principal owner of Keowee Flyers, was elated, “Our flight school is proud to know that we have helped provide 4,501 meals to help more than 35 homebound individuals maintain their health, safety and independence for an entire year. What a tremendous gift to the seniors in the community!”

Despite several days of bad weather leading up to the event, April 18th proved to be a beautiful day at the Pickens County Airport.

Fixed wing airplanes offered event-goers a bird’s eye view of Pickens County. Pilots from the Pickens County Pilot’s Association donate their planes and flying time in support of Meals on Wheels. This year’s pilots, David Bryant, Wayne Hobin and Robert Shue flew for five straight hours, delighting kids of all ages.

Festival goers enjoyed the classic/custom car show of more than 60 vehicles. Four awards were given for Best in Class (judged event): 1900-1949 - Gerald King’s 1947 Party Bus; 1950-1972 - Doug Nelson’s 1955 Chevy Bellaire; 1973-1994 - Scott Searcy’s 1973 VW Beatle and 1995-2015 -Joseph Spennetta’s 2015 Ford GT. Winner of the People’s Choice award for a fourth year in a row was Chuck

and Irene Bakers’ 2008 Shelby GT500. This year’s Best in Show was awarded to Andy Fisher’s custom C-10 Chevy pickup. Each winner received a custom trophy designed and built by Vince Doll of Redneck Engineering.

Between admiring cars and airplane rides, additional event attractions included flight simulations, lunch from Bates Masonic Lodge and Yoder’s of Meece Mill, demonstrations by the Pickens County Rescue Squad using the hydraulic Jaws of Life, and static displays by the Liberty Police Department and the Pickens Raptors RC model airplane club.

Over the past six years, net proceeds from this event have totaled $71,850, the equivalent of 14,371 meals. During this time, the Pickens County Pilot’s Association, Tri-State Pump & Control, Redneck Engineering, Farm Bureau agent Darren Ward, Pickens County Sheriff’s Office Explorers and guest emcee, Jay Stone Stoneman of WROQ 101 have invested their time and treasure to make this event a huge success.

Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

CONTINUES.

Every 13 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

Many falls are preventable.Stay safe with these tips!

Find a good balance and exercise programLook to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals. Find a program you like and take a friend.

Talk to your health care providerAsk for an assessment of your risk of falling. Share your history of recent falls.

Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacistMake sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk of falling. Take medications only as prescribed.

Special Events Cardboard City Fundraiser Noon on Friday, October 23 through noon on Saturday, October 24 at Gateway Park 340 Old Greenville Hwy. Clemson, SC.

Meals on Wheels is proud to partner with Family Promise of Pickens County in its Annual Cardboard Box City event to raise funds and awareness about homelessness. Participants will give up their warm and cozy bed for one night for a homeless child and their family. The event is open to the public on Friday night from 5-8pm. Meals on Wheels will provide a soup line dinner starting at 6pm. Donations are appreciated.

Food Fight Bowl Save-A-Lot of Pickens presents the 8th Annual Meals on Wheels – Sam Wyche Food Fight

FOOD FIGHT - Easley vs. Pickens On Friday, August 21, Coach John Boggs (Pickens) and Coach John Windham (Easley), faced off in their first rival game and the 76th match-up between Pickens and Easley. The teams were pumped as they hit the field to compete for the “Food Fight” trophy. A close game throughout, Easley gained momentum after the half, and for a fourth straight year, took home the “Food Fight” trophy with a 29-17 win.

As the last 6.8 seconds ticked off the clock, Easley students gathered at the sideline ready to storm the field in celebration. Coach John Windham

raised the “Food Fight” trophy in triumph, as he recognized his team’s hard fought victory and praised them for well-played game. In its 8th year, Easley now holds a 5-3 “Food Fight” record over Pickens.

ULTIMATEFOODFIGHT-Goalis$20,000or4,000meals From now until October 29th at 4pm, the competition for the “Ultimate Food Fight” will continue as students from all four Pickens County high schools - D. W. Daniel, Easley, Liberty and Pickens - compete to see who can raise the most money for Meals on Wheels! Students can earn credit toward their goal by collecting donations, holding special events and volunteering in PCMOW programs. The winning school will be awarded the “Ultimate Food Fight” trophy at half-time of their next home game.

Since its inception in 2008, the Food Fight has grown to be the largest fundraising event for Pickens County Meals on Wheels having raised a total of $188,918, the equivalent of 37,784 meals.

By supporting your team, you will provide a cure for hunger, loneliness and isolation for seniors all across Pickens County. Donations can be made at www.pcmow.org, or mailing a check to Pickens County Meals on Wheels P.O. Box 184 Easley, SC 29641. Email [email protected] with questions.

Wings and Wheels Recap

Activity Calendar