The Van Buren County Aging Program has received a $15,000 donation from BHP Billiton Petroleum for their Meals on Wheels program. The contribution comes as part of a $75,000 donation to assist with Meals on Wheels programs in multiple counties.
“Meals on Wheels provides more than just food for our seniors, it is often some of the only personal interaction they have,” said Penny Stringer, director of Van Buren County Aging Program. “With budget cuts, it can be hard to keep programs like it alive, but thanks to companies such as BHP Billiton, we can continue our fight to end senior hunger in our community.”
The total $75,000 is being divided among five counties, including Van Buren, to assist with Meals on Wheels. The other benefiting organizations include:
· Cleburne County Aging Center
· Faulkner County Senior Citizens Center
· Morrilton Human Relations Council (Conway County)
· White County Aging Program
According to the 2010 U.S. Census, more than 23.1 percent of Van Buren County’s population is over the age of 65, of which more than 14.2 percent are living below the poverty level.
“The Meals on Wheels program is essential in caring for our aging population,” said Danny Games, external affairs manager at BHP Billiton. “We hope these gifts will help Van Buren County Aging Program and others meet this need across north central Arkansas.”
If you would like to make a donation to or learn more about the Van Buren County Aging Program, you may drop by its location at 311 Yellow Jacket Lane, Suite 2, Clinton or call 501-745-2244.
