In the last two months, the Baldwin County Commission's Council on Aging Department has opened two new Senior Nutrition Centers. The centers offer seniors a hot meal and fellowship across Baldwin County.

The Council on Aging operates six Senior Nutrition Centers across Baldwin County. In May, the ribbon was cut on the brand-new Loxley facility. The previous center needed extensive repairs according to the Council on Aging Coordinator Kelly Childress. The new building features a larger dining area, updated facilities and Wi-Fi.

"Senior Nutrition Centers provide a hot, nutritious meal combined with social activities and fellowship," Childress said. "Recreation is a regular part of senior center operations. Many of the centers also offer a variety of activities to promote a healthy lifestyle such as health classes, medical screening, exercise programs and nutrition education."

Each nutrition center is funded by both state and federal funds under the Title III/Older Americans Act. Centers must also have a contractor. Some are under the Baldwin County Commission and others under their local municipality.

In Baldwin County, the Senior Nutrition Centers are open to senior that are 60 years or older, the spouse of an eligible participant and individuals with disabilities living with an eligible participant. Meals are provided at no cost, but donations are welcomed. If transportation is an issue, transportation can be arranged free of charge.

Childress said select centers provide delivery of hot meals to homebound seniors as well.

"Center managers conduct assessments to determine each person's eligibility. Home-delivered meals are subject to availability, and the delivery areas are limited. The Home Delivered Meals Program allows seniors to remain in their homes and provides them with a daily visit to check on their welfare," Childress said.

Senior Nutrition Centers of Baldwin County

• Bay Minette – 300 N. Hoyle St., Bay Minette, (251) 580-1693
• Daphne – 2605 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne, (251) 620-2401
• Little River – 70171 Ralph Gantt Road, Little River, (251) 580-1824
• Loxley – 14090 County Road 66, Loxley, (251) 964-5330
• Summerdale – 300 Jackson St., Summerdale, (251) 989-6626 (no homebound meals)
• Vaughn – 55810 Canaan Road W., Stockton, (251) 937-4228

For more information on the Council on Aging visit baldwincountyal.gov