Braham is Location for New Senior Dining Site

May 4, 2022

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BRAHAM IS LOCATION FOR NEW SENIOR DINING SITE

St. Cloud, MN (May 4, 2022) — Catholic Charities is happy to announce the opening of a new congregate dining site. Diners are welcome to the Braham Event Center every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:45 for senior congregate dining. Reservations are requested. Diners need to pre-register for each congregate meal at least one day in advance by calling North Branch at 651.674.1956 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.


An annual registration form is required for a new diner. This form must be completed before dining. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete the form. Suggested contribution information will be available. No eligible person is denied a meal based on their ability to pay.

ABOUT CATHOLIC CHARITIES SENIOR DINING
Catholic Charities Senior Dining, a program of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud, has been providing low-cost meal options for seniors 60 and older in Central Minnesota for more than 55 years. The program’s nine-county region includes Aitkin, Benton, Cass, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, and Wright counties.

For information or to register for Meals on Wheels, contact Senior Dining in North Branch at 651.674.1956.

VOLUNTEER WITH CATHOLIC CHARITIES SENIOR DINING
Catholic Charities Senior Dining needs volunteers at congregate dining rooms and delivering Meals on Wheels. Chloe Rowland, Volunteer Coordinator, at 320-229-4590 or volunteer@ccstcloud.org. Learn more about Catholic Charities Volunteer program at ccstcloud.org/volunteer.

ABOUT CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE DIOCESE OF ST. CLOUD
The mission of Catholic Charities is to serve and enhance human dignity for people of all faiths and beliefs. Catholic Charities is an equal opportunity employer. Learn more at ccstcloud.org.

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Our Senior Dining programs offer more than just a meal – they provide a nurturing environment that fosters friendships, healing, and a sense of belonging. Roberta, a Senior Dining Coordinator for 15 years, has witnessed the powerful impact of our services at the Grasston and Mora locations. Among the many events that have touched her heart, one couple’s journey stands out as a beautiful testament to the healing power of community. A woman who had recently suffered a stroke, faced significant challenges. Most of her right side, including her vision, was affected, and she was determined to regain her independence. After her therapy sessions, she and her husband would come to Senior Dining, where they found not only a meal but a circle of support and care. Every visit, a group of women diners would greet them with warm smiles, helping with her jacket and guiding the couple to their table. These kind-hearted women went beyond mere kindness – they helped the woman with her meal and made sure she was comfortable and well-cared for throughout the dining experience. Over time, the woman’s strength and independence began to improve. The therapy sessions, combined with the unwavering support of her new friends at Senior Dining, made a significant difference in her recovery. The bonds formed in that dining hall grew stronger, evolving into genuine friendships that transcended just shared meals. What had started as a place for nourishment soon became a sanctuary of laughter, conversation, and companionship. It was clear that the true nourishment was not just the food – it was the emotional and social support the diners received, creating an atmosphere that was as healing as it was comforting. The couple still maintains their deep friendships with the group of women they met at Senior Dining. Even in their 80s and 90s, they continue to get together three or four times a year, reminiscing about the meals that sustained them, the friendships that uplifted them, and the kindness that made all the difference. For Roberta, this story is a reminder of the true essence of her work. It’s not just about coordinating meals – it’s about creating a community where people care for one another, lifting each other up in times of need. 
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