SHARON, MA - HESSCO Elder Services and the Sharon Council on Aging have been awarded the 2003 Healthcare and Aging Award from the American Society on Aging. Pfizer is the award's sponsor and will present the award at the March ASA Conference. The award, recognizing innovation and quality, was received for the Ethnic Meal Program for Isolated Ethnic Minority Elders in the Suburbs. Even though living close to or with family, suburban elders who belong to a cultural minority often feel isolated and lonely. Recognizing that such feelings can lead to physical and emotional impairments, HESSCO Elder Services, Sharon, MA with the cooperation of the Sharon Council on Aging has developed ethnic meal programs for Indian and Russian elders who live in local communities. These monthly presentations offer food for both the body and the soul, as the luncheon also includes an educational/entertainment component for the particular ethnic group. Seniors of all ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to attend and thus the program also fosters understanding and awareness of cultural diversity within the local communities.

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