In a recent government meeting, Adams County officials approved a significant resolution to enhance meal delivery services for the aging population through a partnership with Volunteers of America. The agreement, valued at $500,000, aims to support the county's aging services program, SoulSource, and continues the efforts initiated earlier this year.

Katie McDowell, the director of human services, provided an update on the county's Meals on Wheels program, which has already served 465 households at a cost of approximately $267,000. McDowell highlighted that the aging community has expressed additional needs beyond food security, including case management, home repairs, and socialization services.

To address these needs, the county previously engaged Brothers Redevelopment for case management and adult day programming. Following a second request for proposals (RFA) released in March 2024, Volunteers of America emerged as the sole provider capable of delivering the necessary meal services, leading to the sole source agreement.

Commissioner Barcia inquired whether this initiative was a continuation of services that began in late 2023, to which McDowell confirmed that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding had previously been utilized to bridge the gap until the new RFA process was established.

The motion to approve the resolution passed unanimously, marking a continued commitment by Adams County to support its aging residents through essential meal delivery services.