Title
Vote to approve the application for Aging Services for the Meals on Wheels 2026-2029 Social Connection Grant
Abstract
The Meals on Wheels 2026-2029 Social Connection Grant Program is based on four pillars - identify and prioritizing seniors experiencing isolation and loneliness as well as those most at-risk, expanding and diversifying social connection programming, such as friendly visits and calls, group activities and technology-enabled engagement, strengthening volunteer recruitment, training and matching to ensure consistent, relationship-based engagement and delivering measurable improvements in social connectedness. These efforts will help more older adults build meaningful relationships, reduce loneliness and remain connected to their communities.
This is a 3-year grant program, beginning September 18, 2026, and concluding June 8, 2029. The total grant amount is $45,000, with $15,000 being spent each year. Since this grant spans multiple years, Board of Commissioners approval is required to apply. The application due date is Friday, August 7. Aging Services only seeks approval to apply, and no matching funds will be required.
Discussion & Analysis: Aging Services wishes to focus on four areas with this funding if received - the reinstatement of our Friendly Caller Program, the expansion of this program into a Friendly Visit Program, intergenerational social connection opportunities, and exploring the expansion of our centers outreach to assisted living communities within the county. This could possibly be accomplished with the aid of interested center participants in Pittsboro and Siler City with appropriate Aging Services staff oversight. The Aging Services Friendly Caller Program has received recognition as a nationally recognized model in the past. In February 2022, the Council on Aging was invited by Meals on Wheels America to be just one of six programs nationally to participate in a Brown University research study to learn more about programs designed to address social connection and loneliness.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This grant will provide equitable access to community options for all, while also fostering a healthy community.
Budgetary Impact: No budgetary impact is anticipated. No matching funds are requested.
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to approve the application for Aging Services for the Meals on Wheels 2026-2029 Social Connection Grant.