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Oconomowoc: $12,500 secured for senior meals starting in 2026!
Alderwoman Karen Spiegelberg secures $12,500 for senior food in Oconomowoc starting in 2026 after the meal site closes.
Oconomowoc: $12,500 secured for senior meals starting in 2026!
The City of Oconomowoc recently decided to redirect funding to provide meals to seniors. The Municipal council approved the reallocation of funds from the Waukesha County Center for Growth to support the Oconomowoc Area Senior Center (OASC). In future years, $12,500 will be available to provide weekly meals for seniors starting in 2026.
This decision follows the Sept. 12 closure of the Aging and Disability Resource Center's (ADRC) senior dining hall at the Oconomowoc Community Center due to planned cost reductions. Ginni Hicks, president of the OASC, emphasized that details regarding meal distribution are still being finalized. Compared to other locations in the county, which average 20 to 25 diners, the Oconomowoc Dining Center only had seven guests per sitting.
About funding and support
ADRC Manager Jennifer Wrucke explained that the community meals program relies on federal funding, with no funding from county taxes. The ADRC had decided to use the funds to support those in need rather than cover the costs of closing the food location.
Alderwoman Karen Spiegelberg advocated for seniors to continue to have access to nutritious meals and pledged funding for weekly meals in the 2026 budget. Additionally, the city has budgeted an additional $5,000 for OASC transportation.
Alternatives and support options
For seniors who cannot directly attend the community meal, home delivery services are still available, organized from another location. These freshly prepared meals are especially important for seniors, who are at higher risk for malnutrition.
Spiegelberg hopes to receive support from the community, either through financial donations or in-kind donations of food for seniors in need.
Seniors ages 60 and older can also take advantage of food assistance programs offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These include the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). The availability of these programs varies by state and could potentially provide access to food stamps.
Additionally, Medicare enrollees who have Part C may be eligible for a Medicare Flex card that can be used as a grocery allowance. These regulations are intended to ensure that older people receive the support they need to maintain a healthy diet.