(THREE RIVERS) – The St. Joseph County Commission Aging remains open, but on a limited basis.

COA Executive Director Tim Stoll says lobbies at both centers are open and seniors can stop in to purchase restaurant tickets; become a member; borrow from the Medical Loan Closet or any other business that can be handled at the reception desks. Masks are required.

However, the centers will remain closed for activities and other programs until further notice.

Stoll says they know that isolation and loneliness can lead to negative health outcomes, so the COA is concerned about their seniors who used to visit the centers on a daily basis for fun and fellowship. Stoll says the COA's number one priority is the health and safety of the senior population.

Stoll says they are closely monitoring the number of COVID-19 cases in the region and relying on the advice and expertise of the State and local health departments to help them make these decisions.

The closure means the COA can not offer lunch at the centers, but it is offering lunches to go. If you would like a lunch to go, please call the COA 48 hours in advance to place your order. You can find a menu on the COA website. Click Here.

The COA will offer many of its exercise classes and crafts on Facebook Live and on its You Tube channel. For more information or to sign up for lunch, call the COA at 269-279-8083.