People over the age of 65 and those with underlying health conditions over 60 may be eligible to receive three restaurant meals a day through a new emergency food assistance program.

These adults, who are at greater risk of severe COVID-19 illness, should stay home as much as possible. The Great Plates Delivered program makes it easier for them to do so.

This federal- and state-funded program provides meals to those at-risk older adults living alone or with another senior and who are unable to prepare or obtain meals while sheltering in place. The program, which is available through July 10, 2020, is designed to serve those that cannot access other nutrition programs such as Meals on Wheels or CalFresh.

• Alameda County residents not living in the City of Oakland can apply online for the Alameda County Great Plates Delivered Program.
• Oakland residents can apply online for the City of Oakland Great Plates Delivered Program.

The Great Plates Delivered program is funded by FEMA and the State of California but administered locally by cities and counties.

Other Food Resources for Older Adults

The Great Plates Delivered program is just one resource to access free and/or home delivered meals for older adults. The Meals on Wheels program continues to operate, providing home-delivered, well balanced meals to Berkeley, Albany and Emeryville homebound older adults. If you are 60 years of age or older, unable to prepare a meal and have no one available to prepare a meal for you, you may be eligible. Call (510) 981-5250 to learn more.

In addition, the Aging Services Division is implementing a new Grab & Go lunch program available to older adults living in Berkeley, age 60 years or older. Based on availability, five frozen meals can be picked up at the South Berkeley Senior Center on Tuesdays. Older adults must meet basic eligibility criteria. Call (510) 981-5190 to learn more.

Berkeley Mutual Aid Network assists high risk individuals through a variety services including emergency stop-gap funding for groceries, navigating resources such as CalFresh benefits, assistance running essential errands and more. To request assistance, fill out their application form or leave a voicemail at (510) 519-6770.

To learn about additional support services for older adults, call the City of Berkeley Aging Services Division at (510) 981-5190.

Take advantage of programs that bring nutritious food to your doorstep to stay healthy and safe during this pandemic.