ST. GEORGE — Are you eligible for Social Security retirement benefits or already receiving them?  Did you know that you can also receive healthy meals and other nutrition services through the National Senior Nutrition Program?

For illustrative purposes only, senior nutrition assistance is available in Southern Utah through the Five County | iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

Local meal programs in communities across the country are waiting to serve you. In Southern Utah, the Area Agency on Aging Five County Association of Governments provides support for this and other programs.

The office is located at 1070 W. 1600 S. Building B, in St. George.

Every day, senior nutrition programs serve approximately 1 million meals to people aged 60 and older. With home-delivered and group meal options, you can get the food you need in a way that works best for you.

Senior nutrition programs can:

Help seniors avoid missed meals and save time and money with less shopping and cooking.
Offer opportunities to connect and socialize, which can help improve your mental and physical health.
Teach you how to create a healthy eating plan.  You can learn about healthy food recommendations based on your age, unique needs, and preferences.
Connect you with other resources like transportation or homemaker services.  This helps you stay connected and engaged in your community.

Project team member Jack Henneman leads a breakout group discussion at the Safety Subcommittee meeting for the Five County Association of Governments, St. George, Utah, Oct. 19, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Sharice Walker, St. George News

As we age, we have different needs, different ways we take care of our health and different nutrients we need to get from our food.  But we don’t always have enough healthy food or the desire to prepare or eat a meal.  Whether you need more food, healthier food, someone to share a meal with or just want to learn about good eating habits, a meal program can help.

According to the Social Security Administration, 9 out of 10 participants would recommend a senior nutrition program to a friend. To find a local or regional senior nutrition program, click here.

The Area Agency on Aging Five County Association of Governments in St. George can be reached at (435) 673-3548 or via email at Mbailey@fivecounty.utah.gov

The Senior Nutrition Program is administered by the Administration for Community Living, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.