News/Events

Community needs are focus during pandemic

Mountain Empire Older Citizens has made some operational changes during the COVID-19 pandemic but remains committed to providing essential services. MEOC is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Virginia Department of Health recommendations during this public health crisis. The agency has also sought guidance from the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. Executive Director Michael Wampler stressed that serving the aging population is especially vital now. “We are blessed by the support of the community and are focusing MEOC’s resources on providing services to those individuals with the greatest needs during the pandemic,” he stated.

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Foster grandparent celebrated for service

BIG STONE GAP — Eighty-three-year-old Ruth Shawver listened intently from her chair as Bill Dotson began speaking during a February in-service training for Mountain Empire Older Citizens’ Foster Grandparent Program. Dotson, a former FGP director, stood in front of the foster grandparents gathered in MEOC’s conference room on Feb. 24. The meeting was especially significant for Shawver, as it would be her last as a program participant. She has retired as a foster grandparent after 13 years of service.

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