Nearly 111,000 older Ohioans benefit annually from community nutrition service programs, which leverage $42.5 million in federal funding with money from local senior services levies, donations and volunteers. Most nutrition providers are private, non-profit agencies that serve meals at senior centers and other community locations.
Nutrition program services are available to all Ohioans age 60 or older in each of Ohio's 88 counties. However, availability may vary locally and priority is given to frail, homebound, or isolated older adults and consumers of Medicaid home and community-based waiver programs.
Nutrition program services offer more than a just a meal. Skilled nutritionists and other professionals in the aging network also provide nutrition education, counseling and risk screening. Contact your Area Agency on Aging or local Senior Center for information on meals and nutrition programs in your area.
Nutrition program services include:
- Home delivered meals - Perhaps better known to many as "Meals on Wheels," this service provides safe and nutritious meals delivered to the door of an older Ohioan. These meals are crucial to individuals who have limited mobility, are homebound or lack transportation. Participants can receive up to three meals a day at no cost, though most programs welcome donations.
- Congregate meals - In addition to safe and nutritious meals, congregate meals provide opportunities for social interaction and activity. Sites include senior centers, churches and other community focal points.
- Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program - Available in many counties, the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program provides older residents with limited incomes coupons they can redeem for free, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs from authorized farmers at farmers' markets and roadside stands.
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