An emergency grant of $100,000 from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) will ensure that Meals On Wheels and Friendship Meals continue to be served in several area counties, including Greenwood and Elk Counties.
The South Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging (SCKAAA) had provided those meals to older residents in 10 counties through a contract with the nonprofit subcontractor Everfull/ Aging Projects since 1974. Financial issues for Everfull had threatened to disrupt service of those meals beginning July 1.
The funding will allow SCKAAA to immediately secure alternative meal providers, cover increased food and delivery costs, and ensure there is no interruption in service for older adults who rely on daily meals for their well-being, the organization said in a statement last Thursday, June 12.
Approximately 18,000 meals were served at 22 locations in Chautauqua, Cowley, Elk, Greenwood, Harper, Kingman, McPherson, Sumner, Reno and Rice counties by Everfull.
In a letter shared by SCKAA, Executive Director Jodi Whitmore stated, “Ultimately, SCKAAA determined it must proceed with early termination due to Everfull’s untimely utilization of funds allocated specifically for congregate meals. In addition, delinquent audits have made it impossible for SCKAAA to request a reallocation of federal and state funds under Everfull’s existing agreements.”
KDADS and the SCKAAA said they will continue working together to identify sustainable service models and support partners to restore long-term stability to the region’s senior nutrition program.
