By MIKE GILMORE
mgilmore@GBTribune.com
LARNED — The Welcome Inn Senior Center has received a $10,000 grant from the Golden Belt Community Foundation.
In presenting the grant on Feb. 21, GBCF Executive Director Jason Murray noted, “The Golden Belt Community Foundation always seeks opportunities to help the community grow.”
Over the past several months, the Welcome Inn’s Fellowship Meals program, open to citizens aged 60 and older, has faced financial challenges, beginning with budget cuts at the federal level.
“Every weekday, approximately 60 homebound residents in our community benefit from the essential Fellowship Meals program, provided by the Welcome Inn Leisure Center. This invaluable service ensures that seniors who are unable to leave their homes due to illness, disability, or isolation continue to receive nutritious meals that align with the American Heart Association’s heart-healthy guidelines.”
But while the service has become a lifeline for many in the community, the cost of preparing meals averages $3.50, and while the program does receive contributions from the Southwest Kansas Agency on Aging and local governing bodies, there is still a shortfall of approximately $3 per meal. The suggested price of $7 per meal applies to those patrons under 60 years of age, while those over 60 pay what they can afford.
“With a total of 200 service days annually, this gap leads to an annual deficit nearing $36,000,” Murray said.
Most of the labor involved in meal preparation and delivery is volunteer based. This includes drivers who deliver meals to homes. Direct compensation from meal recipients averages under $2 per meal.
This leaves the gap to be bridged by additional government assistance, or by community donations, Murray explained.
Recently, a “Sponsor a Senior” grassroots fundraising effort was initiated by Welcome Inn at the beginning of the year. The campaign continues, raising awareness as well as funds for meals and other services offered by the Welcome Inn. Local businesses have also instituted a “Round Up” initiative, which contributes small amounts to the cause with every purchase.
Last month, the City of Larned unanimously voted to waive city utility fees for the organization for six months, as other fundraising means are explored.
GBCF’s $10,000 grant made possible by the Kansas Health Foundation Fund, is meant so the Fellowship Meals program can continue providing meals to seniors in need, Murray explained.
“To those looking for ways to give back, whether it be through time, resources, or financial support, there are opportunities to make a difference. Volunteering with local programs like Fellowship Meals or donating can have a profound impact on those who rely on this service,” Murray noted.
“The generosity of our community truly makes a difference. Without the willingness to serve and give, this program and many others wouldn’t be possible, and our community wouldn’t be as strong as it is today. In the spirit of community, let’s continue to ensure that seniors along with others are supported, nourished, and never forgotten.”
A little history
Origins of the Welcome Inn Senior Center date back to Sept. 13, 1976, when Nutrition Program meals for the elderly were offered at the Larned High School cafeteria. Meals were offered after the students had eaten and were served until 2 p.m. during the week. The program at first had four patrons, but it quickly increased to 55-60 seniors. The cost of the meals was $1.15 per person, used for meal preparation expenses. Contributions were accepted.
By July 1978, a group of patrons began discussing the need of a building of their own. That October, Mac’s Café became available for purchase, and a $5,000 donation from the Knights of Pythias Lodge helped with renovation costs. Rent was paid in a cost-share agreement between the City of Larned and Pawnee County. The group became known as the Welcome Inn; not only was it serving Larned citizens, but Pawnee Rock, Kinsley and Great Bend as well. The meal service was called “Campbell’s Leisure Senior Center Inc.” By 1980, they had reached their appropriation limit of 70 meals and were forced to turn people away.
The group received non-profit, tax-exempt status in July of 1984, and began the search for a larger facility. In 1985, Carr Auction and Real Estate held an open house for seniors at the Blue Goose Café, at 114 W. Fourth St. in Larned, which had become available for purchase.
The building was purchased at a cost of $54,000, with help from the Jordaan Foundation Advisory Board and public donations. A renovation ensued; with funds for the kitchen provided by the Southwest Kansas Nutrition Program and $4,000 to renovate the bathrooms provided by the Southwest Area Agency on Aging.
The first meal served at the Welcome Inn Senior Center at their current location was on Nov. 30, 1985. The average contribution for each meal served was 66 cents.
