Q: Is the Home Delivered Meals program going away?
No. The program is continuing. The meal type and method of delivery changed to provide more flexibility, reliability, and long‑term sustainability so that eligible seniors can continue receiving meals at home.

Q: Why is the County moving from hot meals to frozen meals?
The choice menu emphasizes seniors’ ability to choose meals that they enjoy eating, giving them personal agency and choice. Frozen meals allow seniors to eat when they are hungry, not only when delivery occurs. A more sustainable cost structure protects services for the future and delivery of frozen meals also mitigates weather related delivery issues with hot meals. Meals can be heated in the microwave or a conventional oven. Instructions are provided on the label on each meal.

Q: Will the meals still be nutritious?
Yes. Meals are registered dietitian‑approved and designed to meet senior nutritional requirements. Freezing preserves nutrients such as Vitamin C.

Q: How many meals do clients receive?
Every eligible senior in the HDM program started with the number of meals from MOWWM that they received from the previous provider. If a client does not have enough food or runs out of food, please tell the driver or call MOWWM immediately at 616-459-3111 to discuss your needs. MOWWM has provided as few as three meals per week up to as many as 14 meals per week depending on the individual need.

Q: How often will meals be delivered?
Deliveries are scheduled to ensure clients have a consistent supply of meals conducive to their nutritional and personal needs. Typical meal delivery is Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. However, 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.

Q: What if a senior cannot use a microwave? Or if they don’t own a microwave?
Staff will assess each client’s needs. Options may include caregiver assistance, clear instructions, equipment support, or alternative arrangements where appropriate. Upon permission, meal delivery drivers may enter the home and assist the client in heating a meal. For clients who don’t have a microwave, donors have generously provided microwaves that are available upon request. MOWWM reports that all current clients have adequate storage, and microwaves have been provided where needed. 

Q: Will this reduce safety checks on seniors?
Client safety remains a priority. The program will continue to monitor client well‑being and coordinate with families, caregivers, and provide referrals to additional services as needed. The HDM transition to MOWWM 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. 

Q: Are hot meals being eliminated because of budget cuts?
No. This change is about long‑term sustainability, reliability, and expanding service capacity while being responsible stewards of taxpayer funds. Frozen meals were already used in the previous program on weekends and holidays, with requirements ensuring participants could safely store and heat food.

Q: The county has reserve funds. Why not use those instead?
Reserve funds are intended to ensure long‑term stability and emergency readiness. Using them for ongoing operational costs would not be sustainable.

Q: Can clients choose their meals?
Yes. The new model offers greater choice, allowing clients to select meals that match their preferences and dietary needs. The Choice Meal Plan offers 36 varieties of meals to choose from, including breakfast options, milk varieties including 2%, skim, chocolate, or soy, juice, and fresh fruit. If clients prefer to choose their meals, they may change their order weekly. Two business days’ notice is needed to complete the change.

Q: Are there special meal plans for people with dietary restrictions due to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, etc.?
While MOWWM doesn’t offer specific plans for medical conditions, their Choice Meals include nutritional information next to each menu option. This includes information about calories, protein, carbohydrates, sodium, and other nutrients so clients can choose meals that are best suited for their individual dietary needs. Their Registered Dietitian is also available to provide counseling on what meals best suit clients’ needs and preferences. See the Choice Meal Program menu for more information.

Q: What if a client has a food allergy? 
The HDM program is not currently able to accommodate meals for those with severe food allergies or intolerances.

Yes. Home Delivered Meals has three types of meals to address these challenges. They include:

• Minced and Moist Meals – These meals come ground for those who may have difficulty chewing their food.
• Pureed Meals – These meals come pureed for those who may have difficulty swallowing their food.
• Cut Meals – These come precut for those who may have difficulty using a fork and knife to slice their food.