What is the Senior Nutrition Program—Congregate Meals?

The Senior Nutrition Program is a nationwide initiative administered through local centers and organizations to ensure older adults have access to nutritious food. Through this program, eligible individuals can enjoy congregate meals which are served in group settings like recreation centers, schools, and churches.

By sharing meals, participants can make new friends, connect with their community, and feel less isolated. The program helps improve both physical health and emotional well-being, supporting a more active and connected lifestyle for older adults.

The Senior Nutrition Program not only provides meals but also offers other helpful services. These include nutrition screenings to check your health needs, education on healthy eating, and counseling to help with specific nutrition issues.

How can Congregate Meals help me?

Congregate Meals provided through the Senior Nutrition Program can help you by providing hot, fully prepared meals that meet FDA guidelines for a healthy, balanced diet. This can save you time and money on cooking, while also giving you a space to socialize and connect with others.

In addition, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) reports that 72% of participants feel their health has improved because of the Senior Nutrition Program, and 76% of participants say they eat healthier because of the meals they receive.

Am I eligible to receive Congregate Meals?

To qualify for congregate meals through the Senior Nutrition Program, you must meet the federal eligibility requirement of being at least 60 years of age. Local meal providers may have additional requirements depending on their resources. Contact your local Agency on Aging or benefits office to learn more about the specific requirements in your area.

How do I apply to the Congregate Meal Program?

Since congregate meals are managed locally through Senior Nutrition Programs, you’ll need to contact your local Agency on Aging or a nearby senior center or benefits office to find out if you qualify and to enroll. To find the center closest to you, enter your ZIP code into the ACL's Eldercare Locator.

This will give you a list of places that can answer your questions and help you get started. You can also call the Administration for Community Living’s toll-free hotline at 800-677-1116 to find the provider nearest you.

Who should I contact if I need help accessing the congregate meal program?

If you need help finding a nearby center or enrolling in your local Senior Nutrition Program, you can call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 to speak with an information specialist. They are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

I signed up to receive Congregate Meals—now what?

Once you're signed up, you can begin attending congregate meals which are typically held at local community centers, schools, or churches. You’ll be provided with a schedule that includes specific times for when meals will be served. Depending on your local provider, you may also receive a weekly or monthly menu in advance. The number of days per week you receive meals will depend on the local meal provider.

In addition to being served meals, you’ll have the opportunity to socialize and connect with others in your community. If you ever have concerns, questions, or would like to stop receiving meals, simply contact your local center for assistance.

Frequently asked questions about Congregate Meals  

• What are the meals like?

The meals you receive will vary depending on your local provider, but all meals follow FDA guidelines to ensure they offer a balanced diet. This means that each meal is designed to be healthy and meet nutritional standards.

• What If I have dietary restrictions?

Many local meal providers will do their best to accommodate special dietary needs such as vegetarian, low-sodium, or other preferences. It’s a good idea to contact your local provider directly to ask about available options and see if they can cater to your specific dietary requirements.

• Can I take home what I don't finish?

Each state has its own rules regarding take-home meals, but in general, leftover meals from the program may be allowed to go home with you. Staff will follow proper food storage and handling practices to ensure the meals stay safe for you to take home. You may also be given guidance on how to safely store and handle the food once you leave the meal site.