Twenty-nine cents may not sound like much – except when it represents the federal per-meal funding cut for ElderCare Friendship Meals, said Brandi Gruber, executive director. “We had been receiving 65 cents for each of the 25,000 meals we prepare and serve each month,” she said. “Now, it is down to 36 cents.”
The funding comes from the Nutrition Services Incentive Program under the Older Americans Act. The Friendship Meals program also relies on state and other federal funds through the Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging; state funding has not changed. The budget cuts went into effect Oct. 1 and ElderCare is not allowed to raise its prices. “This could affect the number of meals we can prepare,” Gruber emphasized. “It could actually result in a waiting list. This is my fear. “Nevertheless, we cannot and will not cut back on the nutritional value of our Friendship Meals.”
The Older Americans Act suggests a $3.50 donation for each meal, which costs $6.70 to prepare and serve. The average donation in Barton County is $1.90. “There is a misconception that these meals are free,” Gruber commented. “They are not.” Some Friendship Meals go directly to the Meals on Wheels program, while many go to senior centers in the ElderCare 28-county service area, which has 14 kitchens. The 25,000 meals are served at 36 sites. “For example, cooks at the Great Bend Senior Center prepare meals for Great Bend, Hoisington and Ellinwood, along with Meals on Wheels,” Gruber noted. “Since senior-center personnel can’t cook all the meals, we also rely on long-term-care facilities such as Locust Grove Village in La Crosse and many other entities.
“Our food costs have increased by 11 percent this year but we will do whatever we can to get these tasty and nutritious meals to the people who need them. Now we are trying to figure out ways to keep costs down and move forward with what we have.” During the pandemic, ElderCare had federal COVID money to offset losses. “We were very blessed to have those funds. But that is all over,” Gruber said.
Upcoming program
“Anyone who donates can be assured that 100 percent of their contribution is used for Friendship Meals,” Gruber said. “Donors can even specify where the money will go. If they choose to let ElderCare make those decisions, that is fine too.” A new Sponsor a Senior program will begin in a few weeks. “This will suggest some particular ways our community can help their older neighbors get the nutrition they deserve,” Gruber said. “We will share more information with everyone when all the details are worked out.” In addition to the Friendship Meals program, ElderCare services include personal care, household tasks and respite for caregivers. Registered nurses provide medication management, wellness checks and companionship.
The non-profit agency’s Great Bend office is located at 2817 9th, in the Fieldhouse.