The Betty Ehart Senior Center and White Rock Senior Center buildings are closing effective Monday for the short term as a precaution to COVID-19.

However, the senior center food and transportation services remain operational. A daily drive thru, pick up lunch is available noon to 1 p.m. and can be reserved by leaving a message by 10 a.m. at each center:

Make lunch reservations by 10 a.m. at:

• White Rock – 505.672.2034; and
• Los Alamos – 505.662.8920.

The Home Delivered Meal program continues as usual, and more people will be added to the routes as the week progresses.

Those wishing to make donations can leave items in boxes by the entry way. Items include easy to make meals, boxes of milk or juice, individual bars of soap and small bags of dog or cat food.

Smith’s or Co-op Market gift cards can be mailed to 1101 Bathtub Row for needs yet known.

We appreciate your time, kindness and patience. Questions can be left at 505.662.8920 and your calls will be returned throughout the day.

“Our staff is working to implement services by request,” LARSO Executive Director Bernadette Lauritzen said. “My biggest fear is that our people will be scammed by folks who appear to want to help. Seniors shouldn’t give money or let anyone into their home that they don’t know.”

Lauritzen explained that the plan is for seniors to call the centers and request help to acquire groceries or prescriptions.

“The hope is that seniors aren’t in urgent need, but that as needs arise, the vetted, background checked and insured staff will be at the ready to help,” Lauritzen said.

The senior center LAVA/RSVP volunteer programs also have a segment of volunteers with the same qualifications. Lauritzen said she wants to ensure that her employees are working, so that they can still get paid, which is a severe concern for many.

Those wishing to become members of the senior center, who are 60 and older can call and request a membership return call.

“Somethings will take a little bit of time, so we ask for patience during such a quick transition,” Lauritzen said. “We will need to do some paperwork for those new to the centers, since a face to face meeting isn’t possible at this time. Our centers will NEVER call you for personal information and you are always welcome to call our main numbers to verify. Depending on the need for information, it may require a day or two to respond, but the centers will keep local media, social media and their website updated at all times.”

Lauritzen asks during this difficult time for the community to help the local food establishments by purchasing gift cards. Ask restaurants if a pick-up option is available and if people may order by phone or email. This will help ensure their staffs stay employed, too, she said, adding that many small businesses and non-profits can’t offer employee insurance, so getting a paycheck is imperative.