Food costs are up. They rose 11.4% from August 2021 to August 2022. That hits everyone hard but it is even harder for seniors on a fixed income. There are options available for West Michigan seniors to find discount meals.
Senior Discounts at Local Restaurants
When you are out at a restaurant, ask if there are discounts available for seniors. Discounts vary by location. Ages for discounts vary. Some places offer specific menus or a percentage off for seniors. If you don’t see a discount stated, don’t be afraid to ask.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels has helped to provide meals to homebound Americans whether it’s just for a short time as they recover from an injury or on a long-term basis. The program can deliver a hot meal to your door Monday to Friday and frozen meals for weekends or as a second meal. Participants can select options from a sandwich or salad menu if they prefer. Meals on Wheels also delivers nutritional supplements if prescribed by your doctor. These supplements are full price, but with the benefit of delivery right to your door (availability of supplements and flavors will vary).
To be eligible for Meals on Wheels provided by AgeWell Services, you’ll need to be 60 or over, homebound, and living in Oceana, Ottawa, or Muskegon counties.
A preliminary assessment will determine eligibility and your suggested donation amount based upon your self-reported income. You will receive a monthly contribution statement based upon how many meals you receive that month and your determined suggested donation amount. This is a donation and it is optional, however, donations do play a crucial role in assisting the program with serving all participants who need meals. Suggested donations are typically a $3.50-$6.00 range. Any and all amounts will be appreciated.
AgeWell Services assists any age needing homebound meals. For those under 60, there is a minimum cost of $7.00 per meal.
Lunch & Activity Centers
Lunch & Activity Centers offer a hot meal, sandwich, or salad for seniors in West Michigan who are not homebound and do not qualify for Meals on Wheels. These neighborhood centers are unique to their community. They provide a place for seniors to gather with old friends and make new ones while getting a nutritious meal.
Lunch & Activity Centers are open to all ages. For those under 60, there is a minimum cost of $6.00 per meal. For people 60 and over, donations are requested. We suggest a $3.50-$6.00 range.
To enjoy lunch at a Lunch & Activity Center, reservations are encouraged by noon one day in advance. You can make reservations by calling your favorite center.
Discount Dining Program
The Discount Dining Program can provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for as little as $4.00. Discount Dining breakfast is available at Driftwood Café at Tanglewood Park. Driftwood Café is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Lunch is available at Driftwood Café, Oceana County Council on Aging (OCCOA) in Hart, and Evergreen Commons in Holland. Discount Dining Dinners are offered at Driftwood Café on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
To learn more about each of these Discount Dining programs, times available, and eligibility requirements, visit the Discount Dining page.
For more information or to find out if you are eligible, call 231-733-0434.
