What are group meals? Can I benefit from them?

Group meals, also known as congregate meals, provide seniors with meals and the chance to socialize and participate in program activities with other seniors. These nutritionally balanced meals contain at least one-third of the current recommended dietary guidelines established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council.

A wide range of facilities host congregate meals throughout Middle Tennessee, including senior citizens centers, community centers and churches. Older adults eligible for meal assistance also qualify for nutrition education and counseling to promote the health and well-being of older individuals.

How do I qualify for congregate meals?

Congregate meals are available to adults over 60 years of age or older and their spouses. Priority is given to adults 60 years of age or older and their spouses at the greatest social and economic risk.

Individuals with disabilities who accompany adults 60 years of age or older or who reside in housing facilities where congregate meals are provided are also eligible for congregate meals, regardless of age.

How often do facilities host group meals?

At minimum, congregate nutrition services provide a hot meal, or appropriate equivalent, five (5) or more days a week. Some exceptions are made  for facilities in rural areas where such services may not be possible. It is best to contact meal providers directly for their meal schedules.

How much do I need to pay for group meals?

No eligible person shall be denied a meal due to their inability to pay. Participants can voluntarily contribute to the service's cost.

Are congregate meals still available during the holidays? What about during bad weather?

Congregate meal facilities can be closed on holidays officially recognized for employees of the State of Tennessee. A full list of these holidays can be found on the State Holidays tab of the Tennessee State Government website. In the event of these planned closures, congregate sites offer and distribute pre-packaged meals.

At least three shelf-stable meals are distributed to participants in congregate meal services for weather-related emergencies. These meals are replenished as they are used and are replaced annually.

How do I sign-up to participate in congregate meals?

The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) contracts with the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency (MCHRA) to provide congregate meals to seniors through the Older Americans Act (OAA) and the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD).

For individuals living in Davidson County, contact Davidson County-Metro Social Services (MSS) at (615)880-2292. 

For individuals in surrounding counties, contact the MCHRA at (615)850-3910.

Initial and annual screenings to determine eligibility are conducted by meal providers. 

How do I find congregate meal sites near me?

For a complete list of congregate meal sites funded in part through GNRC, visit "Is there a congregate meal site near me?"

How do I get a ride to group meals?

Some congregate meal sites within Davidson County have transportation available, contact MSS regarding availability by calling (615)880-2292. 

Mid-Cumberland Public Transit offers flexible curb to curb transportation for those living in all 12 Greater Nashville counties, particularly rural communities without public transportation options. Contact MCHRA about scheduling a ride to your congregate meal facility by calling (615)850-3910.

For additional information regarding transportation options visit *Link Article*

What does the GNRC have to do with congregate meals?

The GNRC is the Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD) and contracts congregate meal facilities on behalf of the OAA and TCAD. The AAAD ensures that each facility develops and implements policies complying with OAA and TCAD funding requirements regarding, but not limited to, fiscal management, food service management, safety and sanitation, and prioritizing populations with the highest economic and social risk.

The AAAD staffs the Information and Assistance hotline with certified counselors who will listen to your needs and concerns to find which services best fit your situation. To speak with a certified counselor on the phone, individuals should call (615)255-1010 or (866)836-6678.

Have more questions? Call Our Helpline
Call our Information and Assistance Hotline to learn more about any of GNRC's programs and services. 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678