A talk with Kellie O’Dell and Jamie Hojnoski about this “bustling center”
By: Johanna Elattar
Nestled in the beating heart of Hornell, at 20 Broadway Mall, the Hornell Senior Center emerges as a vital community institution that transcends mere physicality. It is a vibrant hub, a tapestry woven with threads of community, compassion, and connectivity, designed to cocoon the city’s senior citizens in warmth and inclusivity. To unravel the layers of significance within this bustling center, I had the distinct pleasure of engaging in conversations with two key figures: Kellie O’Dell, the devoted site coordinator since August 2023, and Jamie Hojnoski, the proficient manager of the Pro Action Senior Nutrition Program.
The mission of the Hornell Senior Center resonates with simplicity yet profound impact: to unite seniors in a shared space, fostering social bonds, and offering a daily escape from the solitude of home life. With a meticulous focus on the well-being of their cherished “customers,” a term they affectionately employ for the seniors they serve, the center surpasses expectations in making each day a meaningful chapter in the lives of its visitors.
At the epicenter of the Hornell Senior Center’s offerings is the Meals on Wheels program, a lifeline delivering nourishing meals to seniors who may encounter challenges in leaving their homes. However, the center is not merely a culinary provider; it stands as a social sanctuary for those aged 60 and above.
Distinctive among the center’s offerings is the Senior Dining Club, an initiative inviting seniors to convene for coffee, engaging games, creative crafts, and enlightening talks by guest speakers. Lunch, served generously from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm every Monday through Friday, is not a mere repast but a social event. The suggested contribution is a modest $4.00, with those under 60 welcomed to join for $8.75 per meal, ensuring that the spirit of camaraderie is inclusive of all ages.
On an ordinary day, the center warmly accommodates 4-8 individuals, creating an inviting ambiance from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, the air rich with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The flexibility in payment options, including Cash, Check, SNAP, Paypal, Credit, and Debit, underscores the commitment to accessibility that underpins their operations.
During lunch hours, the center transforms into an epicenter of education and engagement, hosting various speakers and presenters whose topics are tailored to the unique interests of senior citizens. From tech assistance to addressing dietary requirements, the Hornell Senior Center emerges as a multifaceted resource.
Diversity and inclusivity are not mere buzzwords at the Hornell Senior Center; they are living values woven into its very fabric. The center throws open its doors to all, actively reaching out to and supporting the LBGTQIA+ community. Their pride lies in their adaptability, tirelessly working to accommodate diverse dietary needs, including religious and ethnic preferences.
For those unable to join the center physically, the thoughtful service of home delivery of meals ensures that no senior in Hornell is left isolated or hungry. Pro Action extends its support with “Grab n’ Go” meals, frozen and convenient for those on the move.
Engagement and support from the Hornell community are pivotal to the Senior Center’s success. Volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels are consistently in demand, with comprehensive training provided and mileage reimbursed. Collaborations with Catholic Charities and The Cornell Cooperative Extension underscore the collaborative spirit in addressing the multifaceted challenges seniors may face.
From summer picnics to arts and crafts sessions, dance classes to tech workshops, the center is a kaleidoscope of vibrant activities. Recent events, such as an early Thanksgiving dinner and a Holiday Dinner on December 13th, radiated festive cheer throughout the community. The center remains steadfast in its commitment to staying attuned to the evolving needs of its patrons, even hosting tech speakers to assist seniors in navigating the ever-changing landscape of technology.
Looking ahead, the Hornell Senior Center harbors ambitious plans, aspiring to double its number of customers. The clarion call to the community is resounding: they want to hear the desires of Hornell’s residents, seeking input on services and activities that would enrich their lives.
In a world often characterized by relentless speed, the Hornell Senior Center stands tall as a testament to the enduring importance of community, compassion, and connection. Here, every senior is not merely a customer but an integral part of a larger family, where the threads of human connection are woven into a tapestry of warmth and inclusion.
For more information about the Hornell Senior Center or to volunteer as a driver, please call Kellie at (607) 684-7690
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY based writer who specializes in human stories, community services, and local interest news. She can be reached at, hauntedhill@yandex.com
