The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) has announced it has distributed $7 million across the state to step up efforts to provide meal assistance for older Illinoisans impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency.

These funds, provided through Emergency Assistance Services grants, have been distributed to the state’s 46 care Coordination Units (CCUs) to provide meals for older Illinoisans.

According to IDoA, more than 85,000 seniors were provided meals at congregate meal sites, and an additional 43,000 received meals delivered to their homes last year. However, because of the temporary suspension of meal service in congregate dining sites, seniors who had received meals at these sites will now be included in IDoA’s home delivery programs. Between March 30 and April 3, 4,907 new referrals for home-delivered meals were processed.

If you are a senior, or know one in need of assistance, please visit  www.illinois.gov/aging or contact the IDoA Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966 (hearing impaired call 888-206- 1327).