Free Nutritional Meals for Messiah Community Residents

Messiah Community, Urbana Ohio, has recently started a new affiliation with LifeCare Alliance.  A new dining program has been established where Messiah’s residents, low income seniors, are served a free nutritious meal each week.

Residents select their meal choices from two hot and one cold option. The meals are planned by a dietician.  Each meal meets 1/3 of the daily nutritional requirements for seniors. The meals are served in Messiah’s Community Room followed by a fun activity, like bingo.

“It is really a great meal program and also provides social interaction among our residents. I have about 10 people who regularly attend. It is nice to see them enjoying a meal as well as having fellowship with one another,” states Kristina, Service Coordinator for Messiah Community.

Resident Jim said, “I think the meals are nice and help us. They are good socialization for us.” “I like the meals. I wish I could have them every day,” states resident Bob. Resident Barbara said “I have liked everything I have had and enjoy talking to my friends.”

LifeCare Alliance, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, contacted Kristina to establish the Senior Dining Center program.  The goal of their program is not only to serve nutritious meals but also to increase social interaction and reduce isolation in seniors.  The program is funded in part by the Area Agency on Aging.