Centre County to enter contract review for Meals on Wheels program after two bids received

The Centre County Board of Commissioners authorized staff to enter contract review and negotiations for the Centre County Meals Program (the county’s home‑delivered and congregate meals service commonly called Meals on Wheels) after the county received two responsive bids.

Quentin, who oversees the meals procurement for the Department of Aging, told commissioners the program serves up to about 300 home‑delivered meals and provides congregate meals at senior centers, plus shelf‑stable emergency meals for bad weather. Staff received two complete bids: one from “the Nutrition Group” and another from “Fries Commissary” (as listed in the bid packet). Quentin said staff will check references and evaluate quality, consistency and other factors before recommending a preferred vendor.

Commissioners and staff emphasized the program’s role as a safety check: drivers and volunteers often notice missed deliveries or uneaten meals that can signal a welfare check is needed. Commissioner Higgins and Commissioner Concepcion praised the program’s role in nutrition and safety for older residents. The board voted to enter contract review for the invitation for bid; the motion carried.

Next steps: staff will contact bidder references and return to the board with a recommendation; commissioners requested a future discussion with the full board before a final contract award so elected officials can review the recommended vendor and raise any concerns about quality or fit. No contract award was approved at this meeting.