Witwer, Horizons separate meal programs

A recent letter raised the question of where the city/state/federal aid was for the Witwer Senior Center that was badly damaged by the 2008 flood and the fact that they have been relocated since. The letter further went on to support the long-standing idea that the city develop an intergenerational community center that could possibly house Witwer and make an inviting atmosphere for seniors and others.

This is an idea whose time has come, and I hope that it will receive the necessary consideration that would bring it to life. There is one point in this letter, however, that requires clarification, so as to not confuse the public.

Specifically, the letter stated that Meals on Wheels is a Witwer program. It is not. Meals on Wheels is a program of Horizons, A Family Service Alliance, and has been for more than 40 years serving nearly 300,000 meals a year. Witwer has a wonderful meal program but uses a different name.

Horizons Meals on Wheels program also was flooded. The kitchen temporarily relocated and no senior citizen ever missed a meal. In November 2008, Meals on Wheels returned to its rebuilt and improved kitchen thanks to community generosity.

Scott Jamieson

President & CEO

Horizons

A Family Service Alliance

Cedar Rapids