Journal-Eureka continues Dining Dollars campaign this holiday season

Journal-Eureka continues Dining Dollars campaign this holiday season
 
The Journal-Eureka’s annual Dining Dollars campaign, which raises funds for Jones County Senior Dining, is now underway. Last year, the campaign concluded successfully, raising $16,655 in support of the program.
 
According to Lisa Tallman, the program director, donations are crucial for maintaining the senior dining program and providing the services currently offered. Approximately 100 seniors benefit from this program, which delivers hot and nutritious lunches to homebound residents and supports dining centers in Anamosa, Monticello, and Wyoming.
 
Since the pandemic, securing funding has become even more critical, as rising costs have significantly impacted the expenses essential to the operation of the Jones County Senior Center.
 
Currently, federal funding increases are falling short of keeping pace with inflation. The program receives $3.91 per meal in federal reimbursement, while the actual cost of providing a meal ranges from $9 to $12 due to escalating food and transportation expenses.
 
At the state level, there has been a notable decrease in meal provision through Medicaid, resulting in very few meals being available due to recent changes in services. Locally, the county has approved pay raises to align the program's wages with comparable jobs, aiming to attract and retain staff.
 
Part of the funding gap is covered by diners who can contribute voluntarily when they enjoy a meal. However, some individuals may not afford to make the necessary contribution, and these are often the same individuals who most need not only the meals but also the social interaction that the senior dining program provides.
 
This is where Dining Dollars donations can make a significant difference.
 
“We need the money to help make up the difference,” Tallman stated.
 
Dining Dollar donations are tax-deductible, and any contribution is greatly valued. These donations provide essential support for senior dining across the county. Gifts can be made anonymously or in memory of a loved one. Checks should be made payable to the Jones County Senior Dining Center and mailed to Journal-Eureka, 405 E. Main St., Ste D, Anamosa, IA 52205.
 
Businesses and individuals who donate will have their names and contribution amounts listed in the Journal-Eureka, allowing readers to see the growth of donations. Contributions will be accepted until Tuesday, December 31. 
 
Additionally, the Journal-Eureka is sponsoring gifts for homebound seniors. This initiative began with a local Girl Scouts troop and was taken over by the Journal-Eureka the following year.

For some homebound seniors, the annual package of gifts delivered with their meals may be the only gift they may receive, and they are always appreciated.

Gifts for homebound seniors will be accepted through Friday, Dec. 13 and will be delivered ahead of Christmas. Needed items include blankets, socks with tread, games, puzzles, coloring materials, single-serving snacks or shelf-stable entrees and easy crafts or kits.

This year, the drop-off location is the Jones County Senior Center, 112 N Ford St, Anamosa, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; for an appointment after hours, call 319-462-4484.