Posted: Jan 31, 2020 / 06:50 PM EST / Updated: Jan 31, 2020 / 08:49 PM EST

ANDERSON COUNTY, SC The number of Anderson County seniors receiving Meals on Wheels, has increased thanks to the countys newest expansion site.

County leaders wanted to expand to reach more lives. They said its important to help those in need and promote healthy lifestyles.

A group of seniors happily played cards early Friday afternoon. Many said its not about the quality time they spent together, but it meant much more than that.

I look forward to coming because the food is good and I know its very healthy, said Margaret Gentry, a Senior Nutrition Program participant.

Since last year, Gentry has been a part of the Senior Nutrition Program in Iva. Shes one out of 200 people who receive Meals on Wheels in the County each week. However, that number just increased with the new expansion.

Our newest site in Pendleton. They open up twice a week, said Janie Turmon, Senior Nutrition Coordinator for Anderson County.

Turmon said the New Light Community Center in Pendleton is now the sixth Senior Congregate Center in the County.

A grant through the Appalachian Council of Governments is allowing people to receive hot meals on Tuesdays and Thursdaysat the new site.

We were just trying to reach all of the local areas in Anderson County, Turmon said.

Leaders at the Anderson County Meals on Wheels said its not just about the hot meals.

Theyre all congregating together. That warm meal is bringing them together, said Ruthie George, Program Coordinator for Meals on Wheels in Anderson County.

Through bonding and education, theyre preventing isolation and creating healthy lifestyles for people 60 years old and older.

Thats why Gentry said shes happy to come every week. Were not loading up on junk food at home and doing short cuts to our meals, Gentry said.

Instead, the new expansion and the entire program is giving people healthy food, fun and fuel to live a long life.

We have a better outlook when you get out in life and have fun with the people, Gentry said.

Leaders say although they do receive grants and funding for the program, they are still welcoming donations to keep their sites going.

To donate, call coordinators at 864-964-6558.

Other Senior Nutrition Program Schedules:

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New senior site in Anderson promotes healthy living, long life - WSPA 7News