New Home Delivered Meals Program to Seniors is Already Meeting a Variety of Needs

Allegan, MI — Allegan County’s Home Delivered Meals program successfully transitioned to Meals on Wheels Western Michigan (MOWWM) on March 11, 2026, expanding options and flexibility for approximately 325 eligible seniors.

Early feedback from seniors and caregivers is already shaping how the program operates. Many participants have expressed a preference for less frequent deliveries—sometimes as infrequently as once per week—so they can better manage medical appointments and personal schedules. Others who need more frequent assistance can receive deliveries and wellness checks up to five days per week, including hot meal options.

The updated program offers 36 Registered Dietitian-approved meal choices tailored to meet senior nutritional needs. A Registered Dietitian is available to answer questions about dietary needs.  Expanded choices include breakfast items, milk varieties including soy, juice, and fresh fruit.  Participants can eat on their own schedules. Meals can also be adapted for individuals with chewing or swallowing difficulties, including ground or pre-cut options.

To support emergency preparedness, each participant has received a box containing five shelf-stable meals for use during severe weather or unexpected situations.

County officials note that Allegan County’s growing senior population requires adaptable and responsive services. While program transitions can present challenges, the new model is already helping identify and address potentially long-standing service gaps. Increased efficiency and cost savings are expected to help maintain the current senior millage rate while creating opportunities for expanded services, such as seven-day wellness checks and additional in-home support.

Addressing Common Questions

Regional Partnerships:
Working with service providers outside the county is not new. Under the previous program, the majority of funding went to meal preparation by a provider in Kalamazoo County. Meals on Wheels Western Michigan, which operates in Kent County, has served approximately 200 Allegan County seniors annually since 2016 and employs local residents. County leaders emphasize that regional collaboration remains essential to meeting community needs.

Access to Other Services:
The transition does not limit access to additional support. Community Action of Allegan County continues to offer services, and Allegan County Senior and Veteran Services, through the senior millage, has expanded programs such as in-home support, personal emergency response systems, and adult day services. MOWWM conducts in home assessments to identify other needs and connect them to other programs and services. MOWWM drivers are trained to identify needs and notify staff who are able to contact the senior and provide appropriate resources or alert emergency personnel if immediate attention is needed.

Meal Storage and Preparation:
Frozen meals were already used in the previous program on weekends and holidays, with requirements ensuring participants could safely store and heat food. MOWWM reports that all current clients have adequate storage, and microwaves have been provided where needed. Additional assistance is available if needed.

Transition Timeline:
The previous program contract was set to expire on December 31, 2025, and was extended through March 31, 2026, to allow for a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The RFP was posted on December 12, 2025, with proposals due by January 19, 2026. The Allegan County Board of Commissioners approved the transition on February 26, 2026, following a recommendation from the Allegan County Commission on Aging. The program officially transitioned on March 11, 2026, ensuring continuity of meals and services for seniors.

Seniors interested in enrolling can complete the intake process online at www.mealsonwheelswesternmichigan.org or call 616-459-3111 for more information.

The program will continue monitoring participant well-being, coordinating with families and caregivers, and providing referrals to additional services to help seniors remain safe, healthy, and supported in their homes.

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