NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Aging Projects, Inc. (API) announced Friday its rebrand to Everfull and its renewed commitment to serving healthy meals to homebound individuals across Kansas.
"It was clear that we needed to connect to things that we do, such providing a space for older folks to get together to connect to congregate and eat meals together," said Charles Johnston, Executive Director of Everfull. "Also to recognize the important impact of Meals on Wheels in in our community and how we're ever-present. I think that's probably another takeaway for me for this is it's the perfect time coming off of our 50th year of operation, to start talking about how Everfull will be with the community serving both Friendship Meals and Meals on Wheels for many decades to come."
Everfull’s goal through Meals on Wheels is to nourish homebound individuals and enrich the lives of seniors by supporting their autonomy and helping them stay in their own homes.
"In our 13 County area we are funded primarily by federal and state funding and that passes through the area agencies on aging, "Johnston said. "We work with two, the Central Plains AAA and then the South Central Kansas AAA. We get a majority of our funding from that, but there's actually federal requirements for matching funds from the organization, it's I think eight point five percent roughly this year for both programs. When you're talking about multi-million dollar programs to get up to that much matching level, it's really quite a challenge every year."
For participants who are physically able, attending Friendship Meal gatherings gives them a chance to visit with friends and build a closer community. These special social events not only serve a well-balanced meal for the body but also foster a sense of belonging that can greatly uplift those feeling isolated or alone.
"To support the program, we have a suggested donation of five dollars," Johnston said. "That five dollars goes to cover those site expenses, goes to cover meal costs and goes to cover staffing costs and when all of those things are taken care of then we have to support our administrative staff, which makes all of this work."
The group's new website is available at everfull.org.