SAFFORD — A candidate for Congress got a first-hand look at what the Gila Valley does for its seniors.
Democrat Kirsten Engel volunteered at the Graham County Senior Center on Friday, to see what Southeastern Arizona Community Unique Services (SEACUS) does for congregate meals and the Meals on Wheels programs for seniors on Graham and Greenlee counties.
“I just see what a critical program it is for so many people here in this community,” Engel said. “And I also see people like Carla (Dykes, SEACUS kitchen manager), who began as a volunteer and now she’s running this program, and so many volunteers in the kitchen; it really seems to be a community effort.”
Stephanie Nabor, executive director for SEACUS, said it’s important to bring in elected officials, as well as those running for office, to see the operation and tell their colleagues about the impact SEACUS has on seniors who may not otherwise have an opportunity for human contact.
“Go back and share the importance of it, why it’s needed and that the clients are truly served,” Nabor said.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
SEACUS prepares fresh food every weekday for service at the senior centers in Safford, Duncan and Clifton, and deliver those same nutritious meals to homebound seniors. The delivery also doubles as a wellness check on the seniors living alone.
In addition to meals, SEACUS also provides direct personal care, such as assisting with bathing and grooming to assure safety; light housekeeping, meal preparation, shopping and errands for those unable to drive themselves or stand for long periods of time; respite for family caregivers; and can help with some home repairs and home modifications, such as installing a wheelchair ramp or grab bars by the toilet or bathtub.
And SEACUS provides an outlet for seniors to remain active by taking part in programs at the senior centers, such as yoga, crafting, bingo and more.
In 2023, SEACUS delivered 30,450 meals to homebound seniors, provided 33,713 hours of attendant care, 1,098 hours of respite and 168 hours of housekeeping.
Hearing all that SEACUS does for seniors, Engel said there are things that can be done in Washington, D.C., to help.
“You can advocate for them, you can reach across the aisle for more support for these programs, you can understand how they’re funded and find ways to strengthen that funding, (and) work hard to make sure the community is listened to,” Engel said.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Editor’s note: Reporter David Bell is a member of the SEACUS board of directors.
