Nassau County Council On Aging
Submitted by Liz Dunn
Marketing & Communications Director
May 12, 2020
Rayonier Advanced Materials (NYSE: RYAM) recently contributed $15,000 to Nassau County Council on Aging’s (NCCOA’s) Home-delivered Meals Program—delivering a much-needed boost as Nassau County seniors continue to shelter-in-place amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
NCCOA’s meal delivery program is part of a “boots on the ground” initiative, providing balanced, nutritious meals to seniors who cannot leave their homes due to the risk of contracting COVID-19.
“Rayonier Advanced Materials’ generous contribution could not be more timely and we are extremely grateful for their support during this challenging time,” said Janice Ancrum, President & CEO, NCCOA. “Our mission is taking care of seniors. When a pandemic has confined seniors to their homes, it means we must take our services to them. Rayonier Advanced Materials’ contribution will go a long way in providing food security to those who simply cannot leave their homes at this time.”
NCCOA is now delivering meals already on hand and has 4,000 frozen meals on order supplemented with shelf-stable food. This type of food can be safely stored at room temperature in a sealed container for up to six months. NCCOA has also created a partnership program with local restaurants to provide an additional 2,300 meals per week.
“Weathering this crisis means pulling together,” said Paul Boynton, President and Chief Executive Officer at Rayonier Advanced Materials. “It’s our responsibility to help our neighbors in need. Nassau County Council on Aging is keeping seniors safe, healthy and fed and we’re proud to support them.”
Since COVID-19, NCCOA’s meal delivery program expanded from serving 117 persons to 650 each week. As a result, meal cost rose significantly. Rayonier Advanced Materials’ contribution helps offset that cost.
“We set out to identify local organizations that are filling critical needs during this crisis,” said Jay Posze, President of the RYAM Foundation. “Nassau County Council on Aging stood out as an organization with an urgent mission. We know this contribution will make a difference for our neighbors in need and we hope it will encourage others to give as well.”
Any Nassau County senior (age 60+) may request a week of free meals by calling NCCOA at 904-261-0701.
If you are able to lend your financial support for Nassau County seniors, please contact Wallace Bennett, Development Director, 904-775-5481 or [email protected]. You may also visit NCCOA’s website at https://www.nassaucountycouncilonaging.org/donate/funding-help-needed/. Thank you.