Congregate Meals Program

The Congregate Meals program of the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging (AAA) provides a nutritious lunch to eligible participants at 17 Fairfax area senior centers. The goals and criteria of the Congregate Meals program are established by the regulations of the federal Older Americans Act (OAA) and a significant portion of the Congregate Meals program funding in the Fairfax area is funded by appropriations under the OAA and reimbursement through the United States Department of Agriculture. Meals are provided Monday through Friday at most centers. Each meal provides a minimum of 33 1/3 percent of the dietary reference intakes as established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. Nutrition education, exercise programs and health promotion activities are made available to participants as part of the Congregate Meals program.

One of the primary objectives of the AAA is to promote independent living for senior residents of Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church (referred to as the Fairfax area). The Congregate Meals program also provides older adults and adults with disabilities opportunities for socialization and recreation that may alleviate isolation and loneliness.


Eligibility
Fairfax area residents (age 60 and over) who are mobile, not homebound, and are physically, mentally and medically able to attend a congregate meals program are eligible to receive nutritious congregate meals at participating senior centers, regardless of their income or ability to pay. Priority shall be given to older individuals with greatest economic and social need, with preference to low-income minority individuals. Others eligible to receive congregate meals include the recipient's spouse, regardless of age, and individuals who volunteer during meal hours. Special provisions may be made for disabled Fairfax area residents under age 60.


How the Program Works
Eligible participants enroll at individual Senior Centers to begin receiving meals. Meals need to be ordered the day before the expected date of meal service. Transportation may be available for participants needing transportation to a senior center. Rides are provided to the senior center closest to the participant's home. If participants are able to drive, participants may attend and have meals at any Fairfax area senior center.


Cost to Participants
Eligible Fairfax area residents are encouraged to contribute towards the cost of the meal using a sliding scale for suggested donations. All contributions are voluntary.


List of Department of Community and Recreation Services' Senior Centers and Community Centers Serving Congregate Meals:

• Bailey's - 703-820-2131, TTY 711
  
• Gum Springs Community Center - 703-360-6088, TTY 711
  
• Herndon - 703-464-6200, TTY 711
  
• Hollin Hall - 703-765-4573, TTY 711
  
• James Lee