SEACUS celebrates 50 years of Senior Nutrition

SEACUS Executive Director Stephanie Nabor, left, presents Sharon Valencia with a plaque commemorating Valencia's retirement after 22 years of service. - David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

SAFFORD — On Friday, Sharon Valencia retired from Southeastern Arizona Community Unique Services, after 22 years of serving as the head of senior nutrition, preparing health breakfasts and lunches at the Graham County Senior Center and for the Meals on Wheels program.

“I keep telling everybody that for the first two weeks, I’m not going to do anything,” she said.

On Monday, she was right back in the kitchen, in her new role as a volunteer.

Valencia was recognized by SEACUS Executive Director Stephanie Nabor during Friday’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of the federal Senior Nutrition Program.

Taking over for Valencia is Carla Dykes Clark.

“She’s very knowledgeable, learns very quick(ly), has a lot of young energy and reminds me of me when I first started,” Valencia said.

Corbin Estes, left, piles on the bacon potatoes on the plate of SEACUS Board President Mike Andazola during Friday’s celebration of 50 years of the federal Senior Nutrition Program. The Estes Family chuck wagon provided a steak lunch for everyone in attendance. – David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Friday’s celebration included participation from SEAGO’s Area Agency on Aging and Eden Home Health, as well as a steak lunch courtesy of the Estes Family chuck wagon.

SEACUS provides congregate meals for those 55 and older at Senior Centers in Safford and Clifton, as well as delivering meals to the homes of qualifying seniors 60 and older through the Meals on Wheels program.

SEACUS also provides personal care to seniors, including light housekeeping duties and laundry, help with shopping and even bathing for those who qualify.

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