Nutrition Program (Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals)

Older Iowans are increasingly experiencing food insecurity. Elderbridge is working to address this through our Nutrition Program, which includes Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals, Nutrition Education, and Counseling.

Established in 1974, the Nutrition Program is primarily funded through federal and state sources, with some county-level support. However, when funding decreases, Elderbridge must adjust our services. In March 2023, a waiting list was implemented for Congregate Meals due to increased demand and limited funding.

The program is focused on alleviating hunger, providing access to healthy food, reducing malnutrition, and promoting social interaction. Nutrition services help prevent disease and delay chronic conditions. In addition to meals, clients benefit from education on healthy eating, cooking, and exercise, as well as activities like Tai Chi for Arthritis to promote physical and mental well-being.

The program serves adults aged 60+ who are in the greatest social and economic need, including those who are low-income, rural, homebound, frail, or at risk of institutionalization.

Elderbridge collaborates with several partners to provide the Nutrition Program to clients. Key partners include the Iowa Aging & Disability Services (ADS), 53 meal sites, County Boards of Supervisors, and Grantmakers. The ADS provides Federal and State funding to Elderbridge, while Elderbridge provides some funding to meal sites and ensures that Federal and State food safety standards are met. County Boards of Supervisors and Grantmakers also contribute funds to meal sites

In FY23, Elderbridge served 3,851 meal clients with 167,119 meals for $1,802,583. While some support came from now-depleted COVID relief funds, the average cost per meal is $10.00. Most clients are unable to cover the full cost, contributing less than $3.00 per meal on average.

This funding shortfall led to the implementation of a waiting list for services.

To continue to manage rising demand and reduced resources, Elderbridge has:

 Ended financial support for six meal sites
 Reduced funding for the remaining 53
 Engaged with the Iowa Aging and Disability Services, legislators, and county boards to advocate for increased funding
 Explored partnerships with Veterans Affairs
 Increase writing grant proposals and planning fundraisers to address a $500,000 deficit between FY23 and FY24

On average, meals are served 20 days per month, and the number of meals provided to each client depends on their needs and available funding.

Elderbridge remains committed to meeting the nutritional needs of older Iowans despite ongoing financial challenges.

Trained staff conduct intake, assessment, nutrition screening, and counseling with clients. The screening covers aspects like need, income, daily meal consumption, and more. For clients requiring home-delivered meals, additional information is gathered.

Ruthie, recovering from a car accident with a broken wrist and leg, received Home-Delivered Meals five times a week for two months, complemented by meals from friends. This support sustained her until she could resume normal activities. Bob, who has cancer, initially isolated himself and consumed unhealthy food. Home -Home-delivered meals during chemotherapy helped restore his energy. With improved well-being, Bob transitioned to a Congregate Meal site, enjoying healthy meals and socializing with others.

Trina, aged 68, faced adversity working part-time to supplement her income, but had to take leave due to disabilities and surgery. Ineligible for unemployment and lacking family support, Trina struggled with poor nutrition, weight loss, late rent, and medication co-pays. An Elderbridge Counselor stepped in, providing Home-Delivered Meals and resources to address these challenges. As a result, Trina regained her health and successfully returned to work.

Bruce, dealing with aphasia from a stroke and grieving the recent loss of his wife to cancer, finds solace in daily congregate meals. Despite difficulty speaking, he values the support of friends and fellow participants. Unable to articulate words during conversations, Bruce's joy shows through broad smiles and warm laughter, proving the significance of social connections in his daily life.

A healthy diet promotes longevity, lowers the risk of obesity, and aids in managing chronic conditions. In situations where nutritious choices, such as hot meals, are unavailable, individuals may opt for foods higher in calories, and lower in nutrients (CDC, Feb. 2023, pg.1). Moreover, promoting overall health not only enhances well-being but also contributes to cost savings by reducing expenses related to ambulances, hospitals, nursing facilities, and lessening the burden on taxpayers.

Elderbridge receives attendance logs from meal sites, documenting meal dates and the monthly count of consumed meals per client. Participation in activities like Tai Chi for Arthritis or Matter of Balance involves materials distribution and attendance tracking. Additionally, clients receive monthly Nutrition Education by mail, covering diverse topics such as heart disease, food thermometer use, initiating a physical activity routine, healthy recipes, and more