As executive director of ElderCare in Great Bend, Brandi Gruber knew something had to be done when some federal funding for Friendship Meals was cut by 29 cents per meal.

The result is the new Sponsor a Senior program that is now officially underway.

“Sponsor a Senior offers specific options for those who want to provide proper nourishment to seniors,” Gruber said. “All donors can be assured that every contribution is earmarked for Friendship Meals, which includes Meals on Wheels.”

Program options include:

• A $154 donation sponsors a senior’s Meals on Wheels delivery for a month.

• A $35 contribution covers a senior’s Meals on Wheels delivery for a week.

• A donation of any amount can help with food costs for Friendship Meals served at senior centers and delivered by Meals on Wheels.

Donors also can specify a city where they want their contribution to go or suggest that ElderCare send the money to where it is most needed.

“We hope this flexibility accommodates anyone who wants to help people at senior centers, as well as those who are homebound,” Gruber said. “Any amount makes a genuine difference in the lives of our neighbors who need a helping hand.

“Friendship Meals at senior centers and for Meals on Wheels delivery need financial support now more than ever,” Gruber continued, noting she wants to prevent a waiting list. “Historically, Meals on Wheels loses money every year. But with budget cuts and rising food costs we will probably see even bigger losses in the months to come.”

Gruber also emphasized that Sponsor a Senior is an ongoing program that needs support throughout the year. “Individuals, businesses, churches and civic groups are encouraged to keep it in mind when they consider their charitable-giving contributions.”

A little background

The budget cut was effective Oct. 1, 2024, when the 65 cents for each of the 25,000 meals prepared and served each month was reduced to 36 cents. This funding comes from the Nutrition Services Incentive Program under the Older Americans Act.

Friendship Meals also relies on state and other federal funds through the Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging. State funding has not changed and ElderCare is not allowed to raise its prices.

“There is a misconception that these meals are free. They are not,” Gruber stressed. “A $3.50 donation is suggested for each meal, which costs $7 on average to prepare and serve. The average donation in Barton County is less than $2.”

While some Friendship Meals go directly to Meals on Wheels, others go to senior centers in ElderCare’s 28-county service area in central and western Kansas. The non-profit agency operates 14 kitchens, while meals are served at 36 sites.

“Our food costs increased by 11% last year but we are doing all we can to get these nutritious meals to the folks who need them,” Gruber said. “We are looking for ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality.”

For more information or to make a donation, contact Gruber by calling or texting 620-792-5942 or emailing bgruber@eldercareks.org. ElderCare’s office address is 2817 9th St., in the Fieldhouse; the mailing address is P.O. Box 1364, Great Bend, KS 67530.

Those who want to visit with Gruber in person are encouraged to contact her.