Ocean County Leader

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has approved 23 contracts to provide services for the county's senior population. This decision was made during the board meeting on January 15, 2025. The initiative aims to support seniors by offering essential services and opportunities for engagement.

"Supporting our seniors, providing them with essential services, opportunities for engagement and the dignity they deserve in their golden years is a priority this Board of Commissioners is committed to," stated Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, who chairs the Ocean County Office of Senior Services. He emphasized that these services would help many seniors live independently.

Ocean County, known as a popular destination for retirees, has over 200,000 senior residents. At the same meeting, the board approved contracts for 51 programs targeting this demographic. A significant part of these programs includes the home-delivered meals service, which was initially approved on December 18. The program plans to deliver more than 360,000 meals and provide 21,128 congregate meals to 910 clients.

"Home delivered meals are known to provide more than just a meal to our seniors," Arace explained. "This program is a lifeline for many frail and homebound seniors."

Two new congregate meal sites are set to open in Lakewood Township and Manchester Township in 2025. Manchester Township reportedly has the highest percentage of residents aged 85 and older in Ocean County.

Additional services include legal assistance through the Community Health Law Project and expanded transportation options. Emergency services will be provided by St. Vincent De Paul and Compass 82 to assist with utility payments and rent arrearages.

Telephone reassurance services will also see expansion alongside evidence-based programs focusing on wellness and quality of life.

"All totaled, we anticipate more than 50,000 seniors will access these services this year," Arace said. "It's our goal to make certain our seniors can get the assistance they need when they need it."

The Ocean County Office of Senior Services remains committed to helping seniors navigate available programs.