Los Angeles County’s Critical Delivery Service will help people who should stay home receive groceries and critical household goods
A free delivery program is now available to help elderly Los Angeles County residents and people with disabilities get the groceries and supplies they need during the coronavirus shut-down. The county introduced the new program called Critical Delivery Service Wednesday.
Staying safe at home has been a near impossibility for millions of residents due to the high demand for grocery delivery services in the LA area. Residents have been forced to brave crowds and wait in long lines to get basic necessities. Last week, the county’s top health officials implored grocery stores to offer free delivery services to senior citizens, but the major chains haven’t stepped up. The countywide program will deliver groceries, household items and other vital necessities to those unable to leave their homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Items may be delivered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with no delivery cost to the client. No application process is required; however, items must be pre-paid and ready for pickup. Deliveries may be scheduled by calling 1- 888-863-7411 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. Clients may utilize this service up to four times or 40 miles per month, whichever comes first.
“I am thankful that this program will provide food to our most vulnerable older adults as we confront the COVID-19 pandemic,” Supervisor Kathryn Barger said. “I encourage all who are eligible to use this resource to do so, in order to stay safer at home during this time.”
The program is provided by the county’s Department of Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services, with the support of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
“COVID-19 presents a threat to all of our L.A. County communities, but our older adults who may be more susceptible to complications due to the virus are particularly vulnerable,” Supervisor Hilda L. Solis said. “I recognize that our nutrition services are a lifeline for older adults who depend on these meals for sustenance. With the launch of our Critical Delivery Service Program, L.A. County will step up to ensure older adults and individuals with disabilities who are unable to leave their homes due to COVID- 19 will receive the healthy meals they need to get through this difficult time.”