WHITEVILLE — Columbus County’s senior nutrition programs could receive a major funding increase next year as commissioners prepare to vote Monday on a $164,000 budget amendment to support congregate and home‑delivered meals.
The request comes from Department of Aging Director Kristie Massey, who says the additional funding is needed to keep pace with rising food costs, increased participation, and ongoing demand for home‑delivered meals among homebound seniors.
If approved, the amendment would strengthen two core programs:
- Congregate Meals: Served at senior centers across the county, providing daily hot meals and social interaction.
- Home‑Delivered Meals: Often known as “Meals on Wheels,” serving seniors who cannot travel due to disability, illness, or lack of transportation.
Massey told county staff that the funding is essential to maintain service levels and prevent waitlists, which have grown in several rural areas. The county’s senior population continues to rise, and nutrition programs remain one of the most heavily used services offered by the Department of Aging.
The item appears under Action Items on Monday’s agenda, meaning commissioners will vote during the regular 6:30 p.m. session.
If approved, the funding would be added to the department’s current‑year budget and deployed immediately to support meal contracts, food purchases, and delivery operations.
The Department of Aging serves hundreds of seniors each month and partners with local centers, volunteers, and nutrition providers to deliver meals countywide.
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