Since January 2022, Council on Aging (COA) has partnered with MidPointe Library to offer congregate meals at three locations within the Butler County library system. The unique partnership offers an opportunity for older adults to meet weekly to socialize and share a meal. Traditionally, congregate meals are served in senior centers or community rooms within senior housing.
Offering the meal program in alternative locations – like the libraries – posed several challenges, including the need to secure food licenses for each site. With a strong dedication to the initiative, COA, MidPointe Library, Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio & Northern Kentucky (Meals on Wheels), and Warren County Community Services, Inc. (WCCS) collaborated to successfully obtain the necessary food licenses in Butler County.
“This was a true team effort,” said Jennifer Lake, provider services supervisor at COA. “COA took the lead in coordinating discussions, communication and the steps required to apply for and demonstrate compliance with licensing requirements. And, MidPointe worked hand in hand with our service providers by supplying the necessary physical facilities documentation, support staff and development of the meal service procedures.”
The approval process took more than 18 months. During that time, MidPointe Library coordinated meals from restaurants so the program could start and be in compliance with health department rules until WCCS could provide meals service.
This November, WCCS began catering meals for Monroe and Trenton MidPointe Library Systems’ older adult meal programs. In addition, a third site at the MidPointe Library’s West Chester location has been offering weekly congregate meals catered by Meals on Wheels since January 2022.
The congregate meals are funded by COA through the Older Americans Act. The program provides those aged 60 and older a free lunch (donations excepted), along with various activities, creating opportunities to connect and socialize with others. Participants were invited to share their thoughts about the weekly meal program, revealing that it includes much more than food – being with others is a significant part of the program.
- “It’s good to meet diverse group of your peers and have an hour or two of fun.” Diann
- “I look forward to coming here every week. I live alone, so once a week I get to be around other people. It’s close to me, which makes it easy to come to, everyone’s friendly, and the food is amazing!” Laura
- “It’s my only entertainment for the week, so I love it!” Debbie
- “It’s the best part of retirement, and I need the social time.” Janet
Meeting weekly has created a space for meaningful discussions and the sharing of ideas, nurturing a sense of community and belonging. Every meal transforms into a chance to connect, share experiences and offer support in a friendly and welcoming environment.
MidPointe Library Congregate Meals Sites
For more information or to register to attend a meal, visit MidPointe Library’s website: https://www.midpointelibrary.org/
- MidPointe Library Meals in Monroe – 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Thursdays: 6 East Ave., Monroe, OH 45050. Reservation required, call (513) 424-1251.
- MidPointe Library Meals in Trenton – 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Wednesdays: 200 Edgewood Dr., Trenton, OH 45067. Reservation required, call (513) 424-1251.
MidPointe Library West Chester – 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Fridays: 9363 Centre Pointe Dr., West Chester, OH 45069. Reservation required, call (513) 424-1251.