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CAO of WNY launches COVID-19 nutrition assistance initiative through CARES Act

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Wed, Jan 27th 2021 03:15 pm

Includes expanding CAO’s mobile food pantry services & grocery delivery to seniors, those living with disabilities

The Community Action Organization of WNY has launched its COVID-19 nutrition assistance initiative through CARES Act funding. The initiative enables CAO to expand its reach in Western New York by hosting more mobile food pantry events and delivering groceries to eligible seniors and those living with disabilities.

Beginning on Jan. 27, CAO’s mobile food pantry will begin servicing ZIP code 14204 at the CAO JFK Community Center, and residents of Angola, Brant, Farnham and Derby at the CAO Angola Resource Center. CAO will continue these services on the fourth Wednesday of each month. CAO has already been serving the LBJ Apartment Complex and residents in 14208 and 14209 ZIP codes.

Still, Brandi Haynes, director of CAO’s emergency and family services department, said she is thrilled to bring mobile food pantry services to more rural communities in Western New York.

“There is no shortage of those in need in Western New York,” Haynes said. “It’s incredible to be able to serve those living in rural areas near Angola, New York; they are often overlooked. My department is looking forward to connecting with these communities and sharing more information on CAO’s expanded programming.”

Mobile Food Pantry Sites

  • Site 1: BMHA LBJ Apt Building: 167 W. Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo; from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; for residents of LBJ Apartments and 14208 and 14209 ZIP codes (clients residing in other ZIP codes need a referral)
  • Site 2: CAO JFK Community Center, 114 Hickory St., Buffalo; from 10 a.m. until noon every fourth Wednesday of the month; for residents of 14204 ZIP code only
  • Site 3: CAO Angola Community Center, 251 N. Main Street, Angola; from 1-3 p.m. every fourth Wednesday of the month; for residents of Angola, Derby, Brant and Farnham only)

Due to COVID-19 precautions, CAO’s mobile food pantries will not be accepting walk-up clients. Residents must apply in advance and provide the following documentation: photo ID, proof of address, proof of income, and identification for all additional household members.

CAO has also launched the CARES emergency home delivery program. It will assist low-income seniors ages 65 or older, disabled individuals, and individuals and families without secure access to food due to the pandemic with obtaining nutritious food items to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

“Once a month, our friendly, emergency and family services team will deliver a bag of groceries to homebound individuals who are unable to visit a food pantry in their local community,” Haynes said. “This program is designed to assist clients who can prepare their meals but lack the mobility to utilize a traditional food pantry.”

Those interested in any CAO’s nutrition assistance programs can call 716-881-5150 for more information and questions on eligibility or application. CAO’s nutrition assistance initiative is made possible through the federal CARES Act. Click here to view the flyer.

The Community Action Organization of WNY was incorporated in 1965 and operates antipoverty programs in Erie and Niagara counties. Annually, CAO serves more than 50,000 families and individuals in Western New York through various programs and services. Visit caowny.org for more information.

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