Ramona Senior Center To Launch Fund Drive

Officers of the Ramona Senior Center are gearing up to conduct a local fund-raising drive during the next several weeks.

Center president Ellie Whitcomb, vice president Charles Teichert Jr. and executive director Ray Cardona are spearheading the public information and fund appeal.

The senior center conducts weekly programs at the center on Aqua Lane from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Activities include arts and crafts, exercise, bridge, bingo, quilting and watercolors.

The highlight of each weekday at the center is the nutritionally balanced hot lunch program. In addition, two special hot and cold meal delivery trucks are on the road serving meals to the homebound on a daily basis, as well as a small commuter van that brings clients in for lunch and then returns them home.

Financial pressures caused by high fuel and milk prices and a recent 25 percent funding cutback prompted the appeal to the general Ramona population for money.

According to nutrition director Ray Cardona, the center receives less than 50 percent of its costs in donations from the existing client base to cover the food program. Local supermarkets and merchants also contribute their excess stock to the center’s food bank.

Teichert and Cardona are distributing a flier explaining how easy it is for the local resident to help. Fliers will be distributed through the Chamber of Commerce newsletter and other mailing outlets as they become available, placing them with service clubs and local businesses, or complete the form at the right.

Cardona was the guest speaker at the Ramona Kiwanis Club on Aug. 21, and the center’s committee wants to address any local club or organization that might be interested. Contact the Ramona Senior Center at (760) 789-0440 for details.