What Is A Friendship Café?
Senior Connections' Friendship Cafés are neighborhood gathering places for seniors where a hot midday meal, good friends, and diverse activities assure that seniors remain active and connected to the community while meeting their nutritional needs.
Who May Attend?
Adults who are:
- Age 60 or older.
- Independently mobile and not homebound.
- Physically, mentally, and medically independent and able to attend the Friendship Café without assistance.
- Living independently in a private residence and are not current residents of an adult care residence, assisted living facility, or nursing home.
What Is Provided?
- Meals: A hot, nutritious meal providing one-third of the recommended dietary allowances (RDA).
- Activities: Seniors enjoy exercise, lectures, health and nutrition education and screenings, and other educational, enrichment, and social activities.
- Field Trips: For those who can be accommodated and may include a client-purchased restaurant meal once a month.
- Initial Assessment and Periodic Reassessment: For eligibility and assistance with locating additional services, if needed.
Is There A Friendship Cafe In My Area?
Click here to find out if a Cafe is near your home.
How Much Does It Cost?
There is no charge for this service. All participants are encouraged to contribute according to their ability; however, there is no obligation. Donations enhance services for seniors in the community and are voluntary, private, and confidential.
How Is The Friendship Café Staffed?
Friendship Cafés are staffed by a friendly, caring Nutrition Site Manager or Food Service Manager who is trained in proper and safe food service techniques and activity planning.
When Is The Friendship Café Open?
Friendship Café days may vary but generally hours run from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friendship Cafés are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and major holidays.
How Can I Get There?
Participants can drive themselves, get rides with friends and family, or use one of the transportation services provided by Senior Connections. If available, transportation to the Café nearest you will be arranged by Senior Connections staff after you are deemed eligible through the application process.
How Do I Get Started?
Prospective clients must complete an application. As part of the application process, a Senior Connections Care Coordinator will make an appointment to meet the applicant at the cafe. At that appoinment the Friendship Cafe will be reviewed and an assessment completed to determine eligibility for the Friendship Cafe and other services. Family members may attend the assessment.
How Can I Get An Application or More information?
Please call (804) 343-3000 or write to: SC/CAAA Nutrition Program, 24 E. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23219
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