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Encore Community Services can Help You Fall in Love

Catholic Charities NY Junior Board Giving the Lott Residence an Early Valentines Day

Encore Community Services of New York City, one of the agencies that make up Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, has been serving the needs of seniors in midtown Manhattan since 1977. Encore serves over 400,000 meals a year both at their senior centers and in the homes of seniors. But Encore isn’t just about food (though we’ll come back to that). Encore also operates residences and provides mental health services for seniors.

WHY SENIORS NEED YOUR HELP – BEYOND MEALS

According to the National Institutes on Aging, social isolation and loneliness are linked to higher risks for a variety of physical and mental conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and even death. People who find themselves unexpectedly alone or experience loss of mobility and lack of transportation are at particular risk.

But, people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer and healthie. They have better emotional health and a sense of purpose. This engagement seems to help maintain their well-being and may improve their cognitive function.

ENCORE ADDRESSES SOCIAL ISOLATION AND MUCH MORE

Jeremy Kaplan, Encore’s executive director says, “Encore is keenly aware of the changing demographics of New York City and is committed to proactively facing the challenge of social isolation. As the elderly population grows in New York City we are redoubling our efforts to improve the lives of older New Yorkers for the next 40 years and beyond. We’re aiming to expand our social services programming, case management, provide more companionship and more exciting programs that engage seniors.”

Well, Encore has indeed grown. Not only are the doors of their senior centers open Monday through Friday 8:30am – 4:00pm, but there are recreational activities like concerts, dances, and holiday and birthday celebrations. Encore also offers movies and day trips.

There are also educational opportunities like, painting, dance, and computer classes. There are tons of health and wellness offerings too, like exercise classes, yoga, T’ai Chi, health screenings, and helpful lectures. Encore also helps address the legal and health needs of seniors, including benefits and insurance sign ups and assistance, referrals to public programs, and more.

BUT THE CORNERSTONE OF ENCORE IS YOU

When it comes to keeping seniors engaged and healthy, there are incredible, family friendly volunteer opportunities available through Encore and the Catholic Charities Volunteer Services. Just go visit:

Catholic Charities Volunteer Services – you can sign up for Meals on Wheels delivery and other meaningful activates right there.

DIDN’T YOU SAY SOMETHING ABOUT FALLING IN LOVE?

Check this idea out…It’s VALENTINE’S DAY.

You want to impress that special person in your life.

Now you can show them your compassion and commitment to helping others – that’s waaay hotter than chocolates!

That’s right! SIGN UP NOW FOR VALENTINE’S DAY MEALS ON WHEELS DELIVERY There are 30 spots open so act fast!

Share the love. It will always come back to you.

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