Elders program
Oneida Elders and American Indian clients participate in educational, nutritional and social programming at the Ray Elm Children and Elders Center. The program provides a variety of activities and classes to help Elders maintain an independent lifestyle. Please call (315) 829-8133 for the latest program information.
Oneida elder's program: meals & activities
The Oneida Indian Nation Elder’s Program provides a Congregate Meal Program, serving over 13,000 meals annually (averaging 52 per day), including home deliveries. It also offers a rich calendar of activities, including crafts, intergenerational events, and over 55 off-site excursions to local venues like Turning Stone. Annual special events, such as a Bar-B-Que hosted by the Nation's Police Department, further support community engagement.
Congregate Meal program
The Oneida Indian Nation Elder’s Congregate Meal program provides an average of 52 meals a day to program participants. In 2024, more than 13,000 meals were provided, including more than 700 home deliveries.
January Lunch Menu
The January lunch menu is now available for viewing online.
Program calendar
Monthly program activities include craft and painting classes, intergenerational activities and cultural and educational trips. This past year, the Elder’s Program was able to provide opportunities for off-site trips, with more than 55 excursions taking place throughout the year. Several local trips included stops at the Bingo Hall at Turning Stone, The Cove at Sylvan Beach, the Regional Market in Syracuse and other local markets.
Special events throughout the year bring Elder’s Program participants together. A Bar-B-Que hosted by the Oneida Indian Nation Police Department is one of the more popular annual events. The event provides a great opportunity for the police department to support its community policing fundamentals and interact with the Nation’s most cherished generation.
January Activities Calendar
The January activities calendar is now available for viewing online.
Caregiver’s support
The caregivers support group, Teyakhishnyehe’ (“We take care of them”), is designed for those providing primary care for Elders. The monthly meetings offer a confidential setting and the opportunity to share concerns and feelings with others who understand and can offer solutions and emotional support.
If you are providing primary care for an Elder and would like helpful information, call (315) 829-8330.
Elder’s program continues mission
A society is ultimately judged by how well it treats its Elders. The Oneida Indian Nation has taken extraordinary steps to provide its Elders with the best possible care and activities. Read about how this mission is continued.
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