COFA Seeks Input to Strengthen Senior Nutrition Services

Published on June 26, 2026

The Tompkins County Office for the Aging (COFA) is inviting older adults and their caregivers to participate in a community assessment that will help shape the future of how they provide senior nutrition services throughout Tompkins County.

New York's Nutrition Program for Older Adults—the largest in the nation—provides more than 20 million meals each year to over 250,000 older adults. Administered by the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), the program supports the health and well-being of older adults while helping reduce social isolation through nutritious meals and related services.

Locally, the Tompkins County Office for the Aging is responsible for providing these essential nutrition services, including congregate/community meals, home delivered meals, nutrition education and counseling, and referrals to additional supports and benefit programs. These services are provided in partnership with and executed by Foodnet Meals on Wheels, the county's local nutrition services contractor.

As part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring services meet the needs of the community and reach those who may benefit most, the Office for the Aging is conducting the second phase of a comprehensive needs assessment. This survey is specifically seeking feedback from older adults and caregivers who are not currently receiving senior nutrition services.

The survey asks about cultural food preferences, special dietary needs, and interest in participating in the Senior Nutrition Home-Delivered Meal Program. The information collected will help identify underserved populations, better understand community needs, and guide future planning and improvements to the Office for the Aging’s delivery of nutrition services across Tompkins County.

"This assessment is an important opportunity for us to hear directly from community members who may not yet be accessing these valuable services," said Lisa Monroe, Director at the Tompkins County Office for the Aging. "Their feedback will help ensure our programs remain responsive, inclusive, and accessible for all older adults."

The current survey builds upon the first phase of the assessment, which measured community awareness of Foodnet Meals on Wheels. Together, the findings from both phases will inform planning efforts and support meaningful improvements to the county's senior nutrition program.

Older adults and caregivers not currently receiving nutrition services are encouraged to complete the survey and share their perspectives. The survey has been designed to be accessible and convenient for participants. Older adults and caregivers may complete the survey online using the survey link, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5SRW5MT, request a paper copy from the Tompkins County Office for the Aging, or complete the survey over the phone with a staff member. Individuals who need assistance accessing the survey or require accommodations are encouraged to contact the Office for the Aging at 607-274-5482 for support. The survey runs through Friday, July 31, 2026.

For more information about the Senior Nutrition Program or to access the survey, please contact:

Tompkins County Office for the Aging
607-274-5482
cofa@tompkins-co.org
www.tompkinscountyny.gov/All-Departments/Aging

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