2026 Meal Changes

At Ashland Aging, we are committed to helping adults age 60 and older maintain health, independence, and connection through reliable, nutritious meals. As community needs change, our nutrition program is evolving to ensure we can continue serving seniors in flexible, sustainable, and meaningful ways. 

Why Meal Changes Are Happening 

 

Over the past several years, rising food and operational costs, staffing challenges, changing participant preferences, and the loss of our food vendor when Northland College closed have impacted traditional dining models. Many seniors have shared that they would like more meal choices, flexible dining options, and opportunities to connect with others in different settings.

 

These changes are designed to strengthen the long-term stability of our meal program while improving access, variety, and overall participant experience. Our highest priority remains ensuring seniors continue to receive safe, nutritious meals that support health and well-being. 

Current Meal Options

All meal options require registration with our agency. Suggested meal contribution for each meal is $5-$7. 
Donations to the program help to keep the program operating. Meals are only partially funded through Federal, State, and County grants or monies.

Traditional Congregate Dining 

 

NOTICE: Registration is required to participate in the program at any of our sites.

Seniors can enjoy hot, nutritious meals while socializing with friends at our congregate dining location: 

•    Sanborn United Methodist Church – must reserve a meal at least two (2) business days in advance with our office

 

Pop-Up Community Dining 

Monthly meals are offered while we continue expanding dining opportunities. Current pop-up locations – sites are TBD each month - include: 

•    Ashland - Pop-Up Dining at Presbyterian Congregational Church - Congregate Breakfast - 9 am to 11 am

 

Call to sign up by Wednesday, March 11th

• Friday, March 13th - Meal TBA

​

Call to sign up by Wednesday, March 25th

• Friday, March 27th - Meal TBA

•    Mellen - Pop-Up Dining at Mellen School - 11:30 am - 12:30 pm - This will become a regular site in April.

 

​Call to sign up by Tuesday, March 10th

• March 12th - Meal: Chicken Alfredo, Bread Stick, Broccoli & Fruit, Milk

 

​Call to sign up by Tuesday, March 24th

• March 26th - Meal is Spaghetti & Meatballs, Garlic Bread Stick, Green Beans & Fruit, Milk

 

Restaurant Dining Program (Café 60) 

Participants may dine at approved local partner restaurants on designated days using a special senior menu. Current Café 60 partner locations include: 

•    Lena’s Bar & Grill – Glidden on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:30 am – 2:00 pm only
•    The Butternut Cafe – Butternut on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm only

 

These options provide flexibility, expanded meal choices, freshly made-to-order meals, and support local businesses while allowing seniors to dine at times that work best for them. 

Meals on Wheels (Home-Delivered Meals) 

For seniors who are homebound or unable to attend community dining, nutritious meals are delivered directly to their homes. This program also provides a friendly check-in from volunteers and staff, helping support safety and independence. An in-home evaluation is required. Call for more information. 

How the Program Is Evolving 

Ashland Aging is working to expand dining choices, strengthen partnerships with local restaurants and community locations, and ensure home-delivered meals remain reliable and accessible. These updates allow us to better meet the diverse needs of seniors throughout Ashland County while responsibly managing program resources for the future. 

 

We understand that change can bring questions, and we are here to help.  

If you would like assistance selecting a meal option or learning more about available services, please contact Ashland Aging at 715-682-4414 or find us on Facebook for regular updates. 

Ashland Aging remains honored to serve our community and support seniors in living healthy, independent, and connected lives. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this transition.