Fall 1968
A group of area ministers came together to determine the needs of seniors living in the downtown area. They opened the Senior Activities Center at 115 East First Street as a drop-in site for people to socialize and exchange information.
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Widely regarded as the experts on aging, Senior Services has a rich and respected history that dates back to 1968. From humble beginnings in a small room on 1st Street, to presently serving thousands of seniors each year from Historic Delano, Senior Services continues to be a trusted leader in senior care and advocacy for Wichita, Kansas.
A group of area ministers came together to determine the needs of seniors living in the downtown area. They opened the Senior Activities Center at 115 East First Street as a drop-in site for people to socialize and exchange information.
Senior Services operates 4 multi-purpose Senior Centers across the city. Thousands of seniors utilize at least 1 service, program or event at the centers each year.
The Activities Center hung a simple bulletin board announcing volunteer & employment opportunities in the community.
The Senior Employment Program finds meaningful work for just under 900 jobseekers (ages 55+) each year. The program is consistently ranked as one of the top 3 placement agencies by the Wichita Business Journal.
The ministers determined that the greatest need for Wichita seniors was obtaining adequate food and nutrition. The first 17 Meals on Wheels were delivered on January 13, 1969.
Meals on Wheels delivers hot, nutritious meals to around 800 to 900 homebound seniors each week day. On the weekends 100 meals are delivered to the most frail, isolated and at risk of institutionalization.
In 1969 many seniors had no way to pick up surplus food commodities so Senior Services began a home food delivery service.
The Roving Pantry takes orders over the phone then shops for and delivers groceries to homebound people age 60+.
Senior Services moved to the current location of 200 South Walnut occupying what was originally St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral.
The site houses the Meals on Wheels kitchen, Downtown Senior Center, The Senior Employment Program and serves as the administrative center for the agency. Three off-site senior centers are also in operation: Linwood, Northeast and Orchard Park.
At this time of uncertainty Senior Services appreciates the outpouring of support our community has given to help homebound, isolated seniors. We are working hard to process all requests from potential volunteers. We must do thorough background checks before allowing new people to take delivery routes. This takes a little time for us to complete. To help immediately financial support is needed to continue to support both Meals on Wheels and Roving Pantry clients. Whether $5.00 or $50.00 all donations are needed and appreciated. Please note “where needed most” in the field for donations.
Thank you for your Support
Senior Services of Wichita
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