Description:Senior Dining Program - Friendship Cafe'
Friendship Cafés are gathering places for seniors where a nutritious mid-day meal is served with others. Seniors enjoy meeting up with friends and participating in diverse activities that offer seniors the opportunity to remain active and connected to the community while meeting their nutritional needs.
Who participates in a Friendship Café?
•Adult, age 60 or order (under 60 clients may participate for a fee)
•Those who are able to come to the Café on their own or by using CCSCSS Transportation services.
What is provided?
•Meals: A hot, nutritious meal providing one-third of the recommended dietary allowances.
•Activities: Seniors enjoy lectures, health and nutrition education and screenings, and other educational, enrichment, and social activities.
•Field Trips: Shopping, picnics, entertainment, special community events, etc.
•Initial Assessment and Periodic Reassessments for eligibility are required. Assistance with accessing additional resources is available if needed.
Where are the Friendship Cafés Located?
There are four Friendship Cafés in Schenectady County:
•Duanesburg Senior Dining Center Phone: (518) 895-9500
221 Victoria Drive, Delanson, NY
Monday / Wednesday / Friday 10:00am – 2:00pm
•Jewish Community Center Phone: (518) 377-8803
2565 Balltown Road, Niskayuna NY
Monday / Wednesday / Friday 10:00am – 2:00 pm
•Scotia-Glenville Senior Center Phone: (518) 393-1946
32 Worden Road, Glenville, NY
Monday through Friday 10:00am – 2:00 pm
•Ten Eyck Senior Dining Center Phone: (518) 374-5511
375 Broadway, Schenectady NY
Monday through Friday 10:00am – 2:00 pm
How much does it cost?
Suggested donations are $3.50 for Seniors 60 and over and $6.00 for guests. All donations are encouraged according to the participant’s ability; however, there is no obligation. Food stamps are welcome. Donations support services to participants and are voluntary, private, and confidential. Friendship Cafés are operated by friendly, caring staff and volunteers trained in proper and safe food service techniques and activity planning.
How can I get there?
Participants can drive themselves, get rides with friends and family, or use Catholic Charities Transportation Program. If a participant residing in Schenectady County would like to request transportation, call Catholic Charities Transportation at 518-357-9801.
How do I get started?
Interested participants should call the Café they would like to attend at least one day in advance to ensure a meal is available. On the first day of attendance, staff will complete required assessments and paperwork as well as review guidelines for the program.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer opportunities are available at our “Friendship Café” Senior Dining Centers for youth groups, companies, and individuals. Activities include serving our seniors, setting tables, visiting with seniors, and participating in games and activities with seniors. Youth groups are welcome to volunteer, i.e. visiting with seniors, singing, preparing tables, and serving meals to our seniors.
Contact Us…
For additional information on volunteering, call (518) 372-5667.