Federal budget cuts to blame
LISA HOBBS
News Editor
McMinnville-Warren County Senior Center representatives say federal funding cuts have resulted in a limit on how many meals it can provide.
After hearing negative community comments regarding seniors being turned away from the center unfed, with one individual saying her mother was turned away twice due to a 150-cap placed on the number of meals available, Warren County Way reached out to determine where the issue lies.
A call to Director Lana Hillis went without response. Instead, an email was received from Vice Chairman Kalah Guthrie, who stated that questions needed to be emailed and would be presented to the Executive Board for consideration. Warren County Way did that, and responses were received on today, July 14.
According to the information, the senior center’s federal meal contract with Upper Cumberland Development District for fiscal year 2026-27 was $141,500.
“This contract is based on a reimbursement rate of $7 per meal. The cost of each meal includes food, paper products, and payroll expenses for the employees who prepare and serve the meals.”
Its 2025-26 fiscal year contract was higher at $173,215 and included the opportunity to receive additional funding if meal service exceeded the contracted amount.
“Unfortunately, for the current 2026–27 contract year, no additional funding is available due to federal budget reductions. As a result of these funding cuts, we have had to reduce our federally funded congregate meal service to Wednesdays and Fridays beginning July 1, 2026.”
Among the questions was an inquiry on a cap, an effort to validate the individual’s statement that it was 150. However, that question went unanswered. Another question, if any seniors have been turned away, also went without reply.
“This change has lowered the number of meals we are able to serve and has resulted in a waiting list. To ensure that available meals are not wasted, once the serving line has been completed, any meals that were reserved but not claimed are offered to individuals on the waiting list on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Regarding the Monday meal service, that program is currently funded through donations and fundraising efforts. Because these funds are limited, we are only able to serve a limited number of meals each Monday. We are actively working to raise additional funds and hope to continue offering this service for as long as funding allows.”
The information also stated that members of the senior center were informed of the changes in early June to give them time to adjust to the policy, which went into effect on July 1, and requested understanding and support.
“Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work through these funding challenges while remaining committed to serving our senior community.”