What is the MEALS Program?
Hot nutritious noon meals are served weedkays in communities throughout western South Dakota. Participants may enjoy a meal with their friends and neighbors at our 29 group dining sites, located in 16 communities in the region. In addition, friendly volunteers deliver meals to people who are homebound and unable to prepare a meal themselves.
This is a service of Western South Dakota Senior Services, Inc., a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote the well-being of senior citizens through nutritious meals, nutrition education, socialization and other supportive services. The program is supported through the Federal Older Americans Act, participant donations, the State of South Dakota and local fund raising efforts. U.S. Department of Agriculture resources are also used.
Return to beginningWho is invited?
Anyone 60 years of age or older is welcome to come. If the spouse of an eligible participant is under 60, he or she may participate as well.
Why should you participate?
The MEALS program offers:
- Affordable, delicious mealls offering a variety of food
- An opportunity to meet other in a group dining atmosphere
- Social contact for those who are homebound
- Daily fellowship for an acitve and healthy lifestyle
- An opportunity to help others by assisting with the program
As we age, we tend to need fewer calories - but not fewer nutrients. It is essentila that we make wise food choices and eat nutritionally balanced meals every day. Good nutrition can help keep us healthier and out of hospitals and nursing homes. Well-nourished seniors generally have shorter hospital stays, lower health care costs, faster healing, fewer health complications and lower mortality rates. Good nutritional habits are also instrumental to recovery when illness or injury affects our health.
Return to beginningWhat will you recieve?
While the menu is different each day, we do follow specific menu guidelines. Each meal contains one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance, which is one serving of protein, three servings of vegetables or fruit, one serving of bread, milk and a dessert. Modified texture diets are available for persons with chewing or swallowing problems.
How much will it cost?
Meals are on a donation basis. See the Costs link at left for details.
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