Senior center promotes dignity, independence for older adults

How to help • Address: 620 E. Water St., Sandusky OH 44870 • Office hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday • Phone: 419-626-2560 • Website: eriesenior.org • Donations: Accepted in person or by mail SANDUSKY — Going into 2026, the Erie County Senior Center, located at 620 E. Water St. in Sandusky, continues to broaden its reach as a vital resource for older adults, offering nutrition, wellness, and social programs that help residents age with dignity and independence. The center's director, Robert Fitzgerald, said its mission is to support seniors across Erie County by creating a network of services for them while also promoting their dignity and self-worth. "The Senior Center acts as advocates for the rights of older Americans/residents of Erie County," Fitzgerald said. Fitzgerald added that the center serves hundreds of seniors each year through programs that promote health, socialization and nutrition. The Meals on Wheels program delivers more than 83,000 meals annually to homebound residents aged 60 and older, offering not only food but daily wellness checks and social contact. Despite the name, Fitzgerald said that services, except for its Meals on Wheels program, are open to all ages. "The Senior Center offers many programs that are educational and beneficial to help the residents of Erie County age comfortably and independently," Fitzgerald said. More than 5,000 congregate meals have been served so far this year from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, which are open to the public. Despite economic challenges, Fitzgerald said the center has maintained uninterrupted services in 2025 while expanding community programming. New and ongoing offerings include grief support with Stein Hospice, caregiver support groups through the Alzheimer's Association, fitness classes such as Tai Chi and Chair Yoga, and socialization activities including ceramics, senior men's fellowship, Duplicate Bridge, Sit and Stitch and charter bus tours. The center also hosts community events including CPR certification, senior self-defense classes and musical programs with the Firelands Symphony. Looking ahead to 2026, Fitzgerald said the center plans to continue strengthening nutrition, socialization and education efforts as the county's senior population grows. Anyone interested in volunteering—whether by helping with activities or becoming a Meals on Wheels driver — can call 419-626-2560 for more information. The senior center also accepts donations through the mail or in person, with donations directly supporting its Meals on Wheels program and year-round activities.