Pocono News Section

Some "Meals on Wheels" Affected by Budget Impasse

Some "Meals on Wheels" Affected by Budget Impasse - Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 5:15PM EST

Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Thursday, Aug 27, 2009 @ 05:15pm EST
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LACKAWANNA COUNTY -- About 750 people who live here rely on "Meals on Wheels" daily. But the delivery days have been cut back. And now the number of meals could be, too.

Hattie Callahan of Pittston has received meals on wheels for nine months.

"I look forward to seeing what's on the plate today," said Callahan, who's frustrated knowing people in neighboring Lackawanna County could lose those delivered meals. "That's a shame."

"I have not seen it this bad," said Linda Steier, the Executive Director of "Meals on Wheels" in Lackawanna County. She's worked for the program for 28 years, including 12 in her current role.

Steier says the program gets about 75% of its funding from the state, and the budget impasse has forced cutbacks. The kitchen sits empty on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Five meals are still delivered - just three days a week.

"I can tell you phone calls came to the agency expressing fear on their part that they wouldn't be getting their meals and that no one would be checking on them," said Steier.

She fears the next cut will be made to the number of meals delivered to shut-ins in Lackawanna County.

"To stretch out the dollars that remain, not every one who does get a meal will get one," said Steier.

She says the program took out a loan from the bank just to get through the next few weeks. She's sad to admit her client list could be cut in half.

"They're the frailest of the frail, and they need us," said Steier.

"It's terrible," said Callahan. "I know some of the senior citizens, too, are cutting back."

Callahan just hopes the state budget passes soon.

"They should wake up and smell the coffee," she said.

Not ever "Meals on Wheels" program relies on the state. Some, including Greater Pittston, rely on local funding and donations.

The Lackawanna County programs welcomes any community donations - even if it's just a dollar. Their number is 346-2421.