And one organization who came to offer Morgan some assistance today was HelpAge. They were doing their usual Meals on Wheels program, but this time, they were providing food to those who need it the most. And according to the executive director, they also used the opportunity to assess the physical and mental wellbeing of their clients. She told us more today.
Ivorine Bulwer, Executive Director, HelpAge
"HelpAge we normally do a meals on wheels, weekly meals on wheels program, but today's one was a bit different. It wasn't only about delivering the meals but we were visiting our older persons who we offer the meals to. We wanted to observe them, how they're doing. We wanted to also assess their environment if they had damage from Hurricane Lisa, how they're doing mentally. If they have their nutritional needs, are met and to assess and observe if there are any signs of stress or sadness. That was what was very important. I had to prioritize, because we were delivering meals to about 40 of the most needy. The priority was to look at those in extreme vulnerable environment. What we saw there is just a representation of what existing. But, it was also an opportunity to be there for them. To let them know that they are not alone and we will offer support where needed and to make the necessary referral. It was really a disheartening; it was kind of sad because here they are recovering from COVID and now confronted with Lisa. I would like to thank the neighbors who reached out and I want to also appeal to persons across this country. There are 37,000 persons 60 years and over and quite a number of our older persons are in need of help. They need support and I'm asking the Belizean, check with your older persons in your neighborhood. Offer a helping hand, quite a number of them need their environment to be clean, quite a number of them would need a little support with a meal here or there so reach out to them."
And if you know an elderly person in your neighborhood that needs assistance, you can reach out to HelpAge at 224-5282.
