abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Lancaster, PA

Home Care Lancaster, PA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting President James Buchanan's Wheatland in Lancaster, PA gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Lancaster, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Lancaster, PA

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They're reliable, they're prompted, and their caregivers are very efficient and always do what you ask them to do. The assignment of the caregiver: they really try to match them to the person's personality.”

Anonymous_1787070351
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It is a very excellent company. I didn't know about this agency until I reached out for help. They have done everything that they could. They came to my home and helped me sign up since I couldn't leave my husband.”

David T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Well, they are convenient and are very understanding; anytime I've asked about anything, I always get responses. My health has never been any more organized in a long time.”

Christine F.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I liked everyone they sent. They were all very kind and knowledgeable. It greatly reduced my stress because I knew he was in good hands.”

William D.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider If someone needed the help, I would definitely recommend them. I have a muscle condition and need the help.”

Nicholas V.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that the aide we have been given is just perfect for our needs. They have helped the most because the hours they give us are from one person, not a variety of people; it's one person you get to know well.”

Elmer A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I liked that they were prompt and courteous. I liked that it made it easier for me to go to work and know that she was taken care of safely. I did not have to worry about her.”

Josephine P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They have good/quality service. I've been caring for him for the past year, and with their help, it frees up my time.”

William R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The scheduling woman has worked so well with us. They get him up and out and moving about.”

Elwood C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are prompt. I have great respect for the way they handle business. I am very pleased. They keep things clean. They don't mind staying a little late or coming in a little early. They are always nice and ask if there is anything else they can do for me.”

Sterling D.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are very accommodating to the schedule. The providers have all been gracious and nice. The quality of care has been good.”

Alfred C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that the way the woman works with me. She comes and gets things done and does what she needs to do. The provider has helped me the most by lifting my spirits.”

Kenneth B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They're very contentious and kind. They keep me in good communication. If somebody has to be out, and they're not available, they get a substitute for me. The services allow me respite so I can get away from the house without worrying about his care and his needs being met.”

William R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The care was very genuine. I have very caring caregivers.”

Ronald M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency has always taken care of me. The services helped me very much.”

Joseph H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are really kind, and their communication, openness, and flexibility are great. They keep him on track with his daily routine and hygiene.”

Gale B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they have caregivers that I can rely on. They have been extremely nice and they address my questions.”

Hilary W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I have a lady in the morning that takes care of quite well. She knows what to do. She helps me get around.”

Gary M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They provide care. They respond. They care and work with me.”

Joseph M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The provider has helped me most by just being present in the home. Something I like about the agency is the quality of care they allow my father to receive.”

David D.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider They gave me good care. They fulfilled my needs. They did a good job of caring for me.”

Barry S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me with things I can't do, like clean the bathroom. I like the caregiver and her personality.”

Guy A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I have had the honor to work with John and his team. They are some of the most kind hearted and loving people I have met. Truly professional and really care for people. Highly recommend them!!”

Antonio L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The agency has made my experience positive by doing the house cleaning. I like that the caregiver the agency sent me is prompt.”

Jack G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me get things done. They do what I ask them to.”

James C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Lancaster, PA?

lm-check

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

lm-check

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Lancaster, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Lancaster, PA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Lancaster, PA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Lancaster, PA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Lancaster County Central Park in Lancaster, PA with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Lancaster, PA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Belvedere Inn or visit Historic Rock Ford, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Lancaster, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Lancaster, PA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Lancaster, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Lancaster, PA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your PA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Lancaster, PA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Lancaster, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Lancaster, PA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Lancaster, PA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • The Long Community at Highland
  • Paramount Senior Living Lancaster
  • Woodcrest Villa by Tandem Living
  • Magnolias of Lancaster
  • Legend of Lancaster
  • Evergreen Estates Retirement Community
Home Care Lancaster, PA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Lancaster, PA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Lancaster, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Lancaster, PA

Latest News in Lancaster, PA

Dripping condensation, improper storage, and other Lancaster County restaurant inspections for July 27-Aug. 2

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are c...

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are conducted. As noted by the Department of Agriculture, inspections are a “snapshot” of a particular day. Many violations are relatively minor and are fixed at the time of inspection.

Facilities with violations:

Aangan600 Richmond Dr., Lancaster, PA 17601July 27, 2026

3 high priority, 3 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Auntie Annes #316@ Dutchwonderland2249 Lincoln Hwy. East, Lancaster, PA 17602July 27, 2026

1 high priority violation

Breakaway Farms2446 Valley View Rd., Mount Joy, PA 17552July 29, 2026

1 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Casa Huerta9 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522July 27, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Chesapeake Crab Connection Inc2834 Columbia Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603July 28, 2026

2 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Coffeeco Ephrata101 Larkspur Ln., Ephrata, PA 17522July 28, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Comfort Inn Lancaster County3903 Abel Dr., Columbia, PA 17512July 28, 2026

2 high priority, 2 moderate priority, 1 low priority, 1 other violations

Farmersville Auction33 N. Farmersville Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522July 28, 2026

1 high priority violation

Greenfield Restaurant595 Greenfield Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601July 28, 2026

2 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Heritage Hotel / Loxley's Restaurant & Bar500 Centerville Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601July 27, 2026

1 low priority violation

Little Caesars1643 Lincoln Hwy. East, Lancaster, PA 17602July 28, 2026

1 low priority violation

Little Caesars 3804101111 S. State St., Ephrata, PA 17522July 27, 2026

2 low priority violations

Mission Bbq2002 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601July 27, 2026

1 high priority, 3 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Momo and Boba Express - Mff3117 Joseph Rd., Lancaster, PA 17603July 28, 2026

1 high priority, 1 moderate priority violations

Mt Joy Family Restaurant & Diner307 W. Main St., Mount Joy, PA 17552July 27, 2026

1 moderate priority, 3 low priority violations

Old Country & More Restaurant2419 Willow St. Pike, Willow St., PA 17584July 29, 2026

1 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Phantom Power121 W. Frederick St., Millersville, PA 17551July 29, 2026

2 moderate priority violations

Picasso Pizza1704 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601July 29, 2026

5 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Roma Pizza Restaurant15 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522July 27, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Royal Farms #260206 Rohrerstown Rd., Lancaster, PA 17603July 27, 2026

1 high priority, 3 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

1 high priority, 1 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Sharkey's Grill/Staff Center@Dutch Wonderland2249 Lincoln E. Hwy., Lancaster, PA 17602July 27, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Steven Dale's Pizzeria & Deli5997 Main St., East Petersburg, PA 17520July 29, 2026

1 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Sugar Bowl9 Normal Ave., Millersville, PA 17551July 29, 2026

2 low priority violations

2 low priority violations

Tropical Smoothie Cafe2201 Strickler Rd., Manheim, PA 17545July 29, 2026

2 high priority violations

Tropical Smoothie Cafe848 E. Main St. Ste 300, Ephrata, PA 17522July 27, 2026

1 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Two Cousins Pizza Family Restaurant4207 Oregon Pike, Ephrata, PA 17522July 28, 2026

1 high priority, 2 moderate priority violations

Yang's Restaurant1232 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601July 29, 2026

1 moderate priority, 3 low priority violations

Facilities with no violations:

This post was automatically generated with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s database of Food Safety Inspections for Retail Facilities. We have also labeled violations as high, moderate, or low priority. These categories align directly with priority levels identified in the FDA Food Code: Priority, Priority Foundation, and Core.

Priority items contribute directly to the elimination, prevention, or reduction to an acceptable level of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury, such as handwashing, food handling, and temperature control, or other direct food contamination threats, such as rodents or pests. We noted violations of priority items as high priority.

Priority foundation items support, facilitate, or enable control of risk factors that contribute to foodborne illness or injury, such as personnel training, labeling, and record-keeping. We noted violations of priority foundation items as moderate priority.

Core items usually relate to standard operating procedures, facility structures, equipment design, or general maintenance. We noted violations of core items as low priority.

To read the full inspection reports, you can visit: pafoodsafety.pa.gov/web/inspection/publicinspectionsearch.aspx

Raw beef stored above raw fish, and other Lancaster County restaurant inspections for Sept. 21-27

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are c...

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are conducted. As noted by the Department of Agriculture, inspections are a “snapshot” of a particular day. Many violations are relatively minor and are fixed at the time of inspection.

Facilities with violations:

Burger King #88331298 Millersville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603Sept. 23, 2026

1 low priority violation

Casa Huerta (Tfs 3) @ Ephrata Fair9 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 22, 2026

2 high priority violations

Columbia Family Restaurant at Prospect3985 Columbia Ave., Columbia, PA 17512Sept. 24, 2026

1 high priority, 2 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Grocery Outlet2108 Spring Valley Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 22, 2026

1 other violation

Harvest Lancaster1573 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 25, 2026

3 high priority, 5 moderate priority, 9 low priority violations

Hong Kong Garden1807 Columbia Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority, 3 low priority violations

Little Greek House Tfs 3 @ Ephrata FairEphrata Fair, Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 22, 2026

1 high priority, 1 low priority, 2 other violations

Mcdonald's # 76411788 Columbia Ave., Columbia, PA 17512Sept. 21, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Rajun Cajun (Tfs 3) @ Ephrata Fair122 Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority, 1 low priority violations

Rothsville Mini Market2102 Main St., Lititz, PA 17543Sept. 24, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Shady Maple Smorgasbord129 Toddy Dr., East Earl, PA 17519Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority violation

Subway1625 S. Market, Elizabethtown, PA 17022Sept. 25, 2026

3 low priority violations

The Pancake Farm Restaurant608 Richmond Dr. Ste 109, Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 21, 2026

1 high priority, 1 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Turkey Hill Minit Market #2644 Hahnstown Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 24, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Two Cousins Pizza112 Townsedge Dr., Quarryville, PA 17566Sept. 22, 2026

1 moderate priority, 2 low priority, 1 other violations

Willow Street Restaurant2601 Willow St. Pike, Willow St., PA 17584Sept. 23, 2026

1 moderate priority, 3 low priority violations

Facilities with no violations:

This post was automatically generated with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s database of Food Safety Inspections for Retail Facilities. We have also labeled violations as high, moderate, or low priority. These categories align directly with priority levels identified in the FDA Food Code: Priority, Priority Foundation, and Core.

Priority items contribute directly to the elimination, prevention, or reduction to an acceptable level of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury, such as handwashing, food handling, and temperature control, or other direct food contamination threats, such as rodents or pests. We noted violations of priority items as high priority.

Priority foundation items support, facilitate, or enable control of risk factors that contribute to foodborne illness or injury, such as personnel training, labeling, and record-keeping. We noted violations of priority foundation items as moderate priority.

Core items usually relate to standard operating procedures, facility structures, equipment design, or general maintenance. We noted violations of core items as low priority.

To read the full inspection reports, you can visit: pafoodsafety.pa.gov/web/inspection/publicinspectionsearch.aspx

'I almost fell over': Rising heating oil bills force painful budget choices for Lancaster County customers

Ana Borger-Greco recently dropped her cable television and has resolved to eat out less often with friends. The 76-year-old retired foreign language professor on a fixed income is also shopping for cheaper cuts of meat and looking for ways to trim her prescription drug costs.Her newfound thriftiness stems from some bad news her heating oil company delivered over the summer: her new monthly bill is $925.“I almost fell over when I opened the little envelope,” said Borger-Greco, who had previously been paying $620 a mo...

Ana Borger-Greco recently dropped her cable television and has resolved to eat out less often with friends. The 76-year-old retired foreign language professor on a fixed income is also shopping for cheaper cuts of meat and looking for ways to trim her prescription drug costs.

Her newfound thriftiness stems from some bad news her heating oil company delivered over the summer: her new monthly bill is $925.

“I almost fell over when I opened the little envelope,” said Borger-Greco, who had previously been paying $620 a month to heat her two-and-a-half-story home near Franklin & Marshall College.

Driven by international conflicts and tightening global supplies, home heating oil prices have surged to roughly $6 a gallon in Lancaster County, more than $2 higher than last year’s per-gallon price. For the 14% of Lancaster County households that rely on heating oil, the historic price increase is forcing difficult household budget cuts, squeezing local fuel distributors, and leaving residents searching for relief ahead of what is shaping up to be an expensive winter.

Borger-Greco is on a budget plan with Reitz Oil that spreads her estimated annual heating cost across 12 monthly payments. Her new monthly amount, which pegs her annual heating cost for her 4,600-square-foot home at $11,100, was determined in July. Since then, she has been adjusting to the new budget.

“I’m also praying for a warm winter,” she said, noting that if she uses less oil than estimated, she may not have to pay the full amount.

At the root of the record high fuel oil prices are the ongoing wars in Iran and Ukraine, which have crippled international refining capacity and disrupted global shipping through vital chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz.

“You’re seeing significant production being taken offline, globally speaking, and the market is reacting and reshifting that supply across the world and that has driven up the price,” said Ted Harris, executive vice president of the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association.

Because heating oil is chemically almost identical to diesel fuel, they are essentially interchangeable in the global market.

Households heating with oil face a 21% jump in winter spending — pushing average bills to $2,115 — driven by a 34% year-over-year surge in fuel prices, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s winter fuels outlook published this month. That financial blow would be even worse, but federal forecasters assume warmer Northeast weather will cut consumption by 9%.

While heating oil accounts for roughly 3% of U.S. households nationally, it is heavily concentrated in the Northeast, where it serves a much larger share of homes than natural gas, electricity, or propane.

In Lancaster County, 14% of homes primarily use fuel oil or kerosene as their primary source of heat, according to U.S. Census statistics show 37% of households here heating with electricity and 34% using natural gas.

Jesse McNeely, president of Reitz Oil in East Hempfield Township, says he has been trying to warn heating oil customers for months about the price increase. Budget plan customers began receiving notices in March about the significant jumps for plans locked in over the summer.

“When we started seeing everything play out the way that it has, we at Reitz Oil took the approach that we need to be open, honest, upfront and communicate as much as possible,” McNeely said.

For “will-call” customers who pay for all their oil at the time of delivery, however, this year's surge is adding hundreds of dollars — or more — to individual bills.

Reitz Oil is currently pricing deliveries at $6.20 for 100 gallons, or $6.10 for orders of 150 or more gallons.

Last year, Harry and Dana James paid Reitz Oil around $3.50 a gallon for the 500 gallons of heating oil that typically gets them through the winter for their 1,600-square-foot brick home near Millersville. That amounted to a total annual bill of $1,750.

It takes reporters, editors, and resources to do this work right. Your donation keeps that work alive.

With prices high over the summer, the couple held off getting a delivery, hoping rates would drop. They finally bit the bullet last month, paying $5.80 a gallon, but opted to order only 350 gallons, which cost $2,030.

A full 500-gallon fill-up would have cost them $2,900 – $1,250 more than last year’s tab.

“I’ve never seen oil prices like this in my life. It’s unbelievable. I never dreamed that I would see anything more than $4 a gallon,” Dana James said. “We’ll probably have to get oil again in February. We’re hoping and praying the price drops.”

For Dana James, a social studies teacher at the Downingtown Area School District, the crunch has provided a real-world lesson for her students on geopolitics and global fuel markets.

“I actually went through the numbers with my kids. To do the whole 500 gallons was over $3,000, and they were like, ‘Oh, my gosh, that’s a lot of money,’” she said. “I could then talk about what was happening, and they were interested because they wanted to know why it had gotten to that point.”

Maynard Shirk, co-owner of Manor Fuels near Willow Street, has spent months fielding customer questions about the price of heating oil. He even set up an informational booth at recent local fairs to discuss the economics of the fuel market.

“I’m constantly asked what the price of oil is going to do. That’s the No. 1 question,” Shirk said, noting his standard response is, “Do you want Trump’s answer, or do you want the truth?”

Shirk said he is skeptical of recent proposals, such as federal plans to increase U.S. supplies by importing diesel from Russia.

Energy policy experts share that skepticism. Michael Lynch, a distinguished fellow at the Energy Policy Research Foundation, recently told the Associated Press that a planned influx of Russian diesel would do little to move the needle globally.

“The best you could hope for is a tiny dip in prices locally in places like the New York-New Jersey area, maybe Philadelphia,” Lynch said. “It just means that the oil is just going to be shuffled around, and it’s not really going to change the price globally or across the U.S.”

Shirk said he has been telling customers there could be a small dip in price around the upcoming election, but they should expect prices to hover in the $6 range through the winter. The price this week at Manor Fuels is $6.10 a gallon.

Many of Shirk’s will-call customers have delayed purchases or ordered partial fills because they cannot afford a full tank or are holding out for a price drop. But those partial deliveries create a secondary crunch for Manor Fuels, forcing its six trucks to make multiple trips to the same house without generating extra revenue.

“Every time costs me just as much as the time before,” Shirk said.

Since his trucks are making more deliveries, Shirk said he is adding more of a markup to cover costs. He’s also trying to enforce a 100-gallon minimum delivery, but he has found himself bending the rule for customers in distress.

Recently, Manor Fuels made consecutive drops of just 33 and 32 gallons for a customer who could only pay for fuel piecemeal.

“I don’t want to pump more if she can’t pay for me, but what am I going to do with 33 gallons? And what can she do?” he said.

While such small drops are unsustainable for his business operations, Shirk said he struggles to balance logistics with compassion.

“It’s a great dilemma for me, too,” Shirk said. “I do not like to tell people we can’t keep you warm this winter. We can — you just don’t have enough money.”

Fruit flies in liquor bottles, pinkish orange slime: Lancaster County restaurant inspections

The following Lancaster County restaurants and other food establishments were inspected between Oct. 4-9 for compliance with Pennsylvania’s food safety regulations.Inspections are overseen by the state Department of Agriculture.In some cases, violations are corrected before inspectors leave.Out of complianceLocation: 3545 Marietta Ave., West Hempfield TownshipInspection Type: RegularInspection Date: 10/7/26Compliance Status: OutViolation Det...

The following Lancaster County restaurants and other food establishments were inspected between Oct. 4-9 for compliance with Pennsylvania’s food safety regulations.

Inspections are overseen by the state Department of Agriculture.

In some cases, violations are corrected before inspectors leave.

Out of compliance

Location: 3545 Marietta Ave., West Hempfield Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: Out

Violation Details:

Location: 1466 New Holland Pike, Manheim Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: Out

Violation Details:

Location: 20 W. Main St., Ephrata

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: Out

Violation Details:

In compliance with violations

Location: 2323 Lincoln Highway East, East Lampeter Township

Inspection Type: Regular/complaint

Inspection Date: 10/9/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 24 N. Third St., Columbia

Inspection Type: Follow-up

Inspection Date: 10/9/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 2006 Miller Road, East Petersburg

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 610 W. Route 897, West Cocalico Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 222 N. Reading Road, Ephrata

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 367 Linden Grove Road, Earl Township

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 2555 Main St., Caernarvon Township

Inspection Type: Regular/complaint

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 245 Hartman Bridge Road, Strasburg Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 662 S. Oak St., Penn Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 1067 Sharp Ave., Clay Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 2121 New Holland Pike, East Lampeter Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 21 Quarry Ridge Drive, Ephrata Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 234 Locust St., Columbia

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 130 W. Front St., Marietta

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 425 N. Duke St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Follow-up

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 301 Rohrerstown Road, East Hempfield Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 1081 N. Plum St., Manheim Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 219 Locust St., Columbia

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 827 Lancaster Pike, Providence Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 4247 Oregon Pike, West Earl Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

Location: 55 Friendly Drive, East Drumore Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Violation Details:

In compliance with no violations

Location: 2601 Willow Street Pike, West Lampeter Township

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/9/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 655 N. Market St., Elizabethtown

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 100 S. Queen St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 629 W. Orange St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 1571 Manheim Pike, Manheim Township

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 89 E. Main St., Mount Joy

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/8/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 408 E. Main St., Mount Joy

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 140 W. Main St., New Holland

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 23 Cold Stream Drive, Lancaster Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 511 W. Trout Run Road, Ephrata

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 14 Center St., Leacock Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/7/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 2980 Stumptown Road, Upper Leacock Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 8 E. Main St., Strasburg

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 1533 Columbia Ave., East Hempfield Township

Inspection Type: Complaint

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 114 N. Prince St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 35 S. Willowdale Drive, Suite 505, East Lampeter Township

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 1030 Precast Road, East Earl Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/6/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 880 Pumping Station Road, Colerain Township

Inspection Type: Opening

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 181 S. Reading Road, Ephrata

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 315 W. Fourth St., Quarryville

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 4311 Oregon Pike, West Earl Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 124 E. Main St. lobby, Ephrata

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 1198 Rawlinsville Road, Providence Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 137 Truce Road, Providence Township

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 903 S. State St., Ephrata

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/5/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 64 Hershey Ave., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Non-routine special event

Inspection Date: 10/4/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 100 S. Queen St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Non-routine special event

Inspection Date: 10/4/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 1205 Willow Street Pike, West Lampeter Township

Inspection Type: Non-routine special event

Inspection Date: 10/4/26

Compliance Status: In

Location: 120 N. Duke St., Lancaster

Inspection Type: Regular

Inspection Date: 10/4/26

Compliance Status: In

Black dust, dirty utensils, and other Lancaster County restaurant inspections for Sept. 28 - Oct. 4

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are c...

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are conducted. As noted by the Department of Agriculture, inspections are a “snapshot” of a particular day. Many violations are relatively minor and are fixed at the time of inspection.

Facilities with violations:

Aramark @ Lancaster General Health - Womens and Babies690 Good Dr., Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 29, 2026

1 other violation

Auntie Annie's Pretzel Trailer / Cchd #12647 Snyder Hill Rd., Lititz, PA 17543Sept. 29, 2026

1 other violation

Courtyard Cafe on Main349 Main St., Denver, PA 17517Sept. 28, 2026

2 high priority violations

Danny's Fine Foods Lemonade Tent / Oreo Stand Tfs 3 @New Holland FairMain St., New Holland, PA 17557Sept. 30, 2026

1 other violation

Danny's Fine Foods/Funnel Cakes (Tfs 3) @New Holland FairMain St., New Holland, PA 17557Sept. 30, 2026

1 other violation

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Services Inc.1290 Prospect Rd., Columbia, PA 17512Sept. 28, 2026

1 high priority, 1 moderate priority, 1 low priority violations

Jrs London Broil #2 (Tfs 3) @New Holland FairMain St., New Holland, PA 17557Sept. 30, 2026

1 other violation

Mangu Spanish Kitchen Mff3 Zvv 8356 & Commissary2354 Beaver Valley Pike, New Providence, PA 17560Sept. 28, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Stubby's Bar & Grille254 E. Frederick St., Lancaster, PA 17602Sept. 29, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Subway64 Broad St., Lititz, PA 17543Sept. 29, 2026

3 low priority violations

Texas Roadhouse #485931 Quarry Ridge Dr., Ephrata, PA 17522Oct. 1, 2026

1 low priority violation

The Humble Palace Tfs3 @ New Holland FairW. Main St., New Holland, PA 17557Sept. 30, 2026

1 other violation

Twin Kiss Drive-In309 S. Main St., Manheim, PA 17545Sept. 28, 2026

3 moderate priority, 1 other violations

Facilities with no violations:

This post was automatically generated with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s database of Food Safety Inspections for Retail Facilities. We have also labeled violations as high, moderate, or low priority. These categories align directly with priority levels identified in the FDA Food Code: Priority, Priority Foundation, and Core.

Priority items contribute directly to the elimination, prevention, or reduction to an acceptable level of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury, such as handwashing, food handling, and temperature control, or other direct food contamination threats, such as rodents or pests. We noted violations of priority items as high priority.

Priority foundation items support, facilitate, or enable control of risk factors that contribute to foodborne illness or injury, such as personnel training, labeling, and record-keeping. We noted violations of priority foundation items as moderate priority.

Core items usually relate to standard operating procedures, facility structures, equipment design, or general maintenance. We noted violations of core items as low priority.

To read the full inspection reports, you can visit: pafoodsafety.pa.gov/web/inspection/publicinspectionsearch.aspx

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.

Invalid Phone Format

Please do not include the country code "1". Just enter your valid 10-digit phone number starting with the area code.