Let’s meet Redempta Kegode.
Redempta has been with Young at Heart since April 2019 as the Nutrition Project Director, a position that has opened her eyes to the world of seniors in the 18-county region of Northwest Missouri that we serve.
“Good, consistent nutrition leads to healthy bodies which are able to stave off illness,” says Redempta, adding, “Healthy seniors are able to age with dignity in the place of their choosing that they call home.”
Redempta’s favorite part about working here is ensuring that seniors have access to healthy meals, either at a congregate site if they can get out, or meals that are delivered to them if they cannot leave their homes. How is this accomplished? By partnering with some awesome community businesses in Missouri that are scattered throughout the region, from as far east as Unionville and Marceline, all the way west to Rock Port and St. Joseph! Redempta has had the pleasure of visiting all our partners at their locations which are as distinct as the seniors they serve. Do you think all seniors are the same? Think again!
One aspect that Redempta has especially enjoyed about the program is that it’s about more than providing meals. Congregate or nutrition sites are usually the hub of the community for seniors, serving as a gathering place for socialization which alleviates loneliness, a risk factor for depression. As for home delivered meals, they also serve as a wellness check for the recipient and, in some cases, can provide that much needed social contact.
Redempta is an avowed life long learner so she reads – a lot! When not buried in a book she enjoys crafting, sampling new foods, and spending time with family and friends.
We value you, Redempta!