Elizabeth Seniors Can Apply for Union County's Social 60+ Restaurant Voucher Program

Elizabeth residents age 60 and older can apply for Union County’s Social 60+ restaurant voucher program, which has returned for a special holiday edition. Union County Life is sharing the details. The program is administered by the Union County Department of Human Services’ Division on Aging and runs through Dec. 31, 2026.

Eligible participants receive three restaurant vouchers for the calendar year. The vouchers can be redeemed for meals from designated Social 60+ menus, and gratuity is included for voucher covered meals.

Tequila Bistro, at 824 Pearl St. in Elizabeth, is a participating restaurant. It accepts vouchers Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 908-965-1002. Two more participating restaurants are in neighboring Union: Garden Restaurant, at 943 Magie Ave., and Mambo Cuban Restaurant, at 2185 U.S. Route 22 West.

Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek said, “The holidays are a time to connect with others, but for some older adults, those opportunities aren’t always easy to come by. Bringing back Social 60+ gives our seniors another reason to get out, share a nutritious meal and enjoy good company while supporting our local restaurants.”

To participate, residents must be at least 60 years old, live in Union County, provide the required information during the application process, and agree to attend a nutrition education program offered by the Division on Aging at least once per quarter. Applications are completed by phone, and vouchers are available on a first come, first served basis.

Vouchers are issued to individual participants and cannot be shared. Guests who are not enrolled must pay for their own meals. Meals must be eaten at the participating restaurant, and participants must show identification that matches the name on the voucher. Coffee, tea, and water are included. Other beverages and items outside the designated menu are not covered. Lost vouchers cannot be replaced, and expired vouchers will not be accepted.

Voluntary donations help support additional meals for seniors. The suggested donation is $3 per voucher, and a donation envelope is included with the vouchers.

Elizabeth residents who want to apply or learn more can contact the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870, or toll free at 888-280-8226.

Find more Elizabeth community news and local resources at unioncountylife.com.

FAQ

Who can apply for the Social 60+ voucher program?
Residents who are at least 60 years old and live in Union County can apply. Participants must also attend a nutrition education program at least once per quarter.

How do I apply?
Applications are completed by phone with the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870, or toll free at 888-280-8226. Vouchers are first come, first served.

How many vouchers do I get?
Eligible participants receive three restaurant vouchers for the calendar year, valid through Dec. 31, 2026.

Can I bring a guest?
Yes, but vouchers are issued to individuals and cannot be shared. Guests who are not enrolled must pay for their own meals.