Delavan residents now have increased access to home-delivered meals through the regional Meals on Wheels program, which is already serving several clients in the community and is prepared to welcome more.

Program representatives say they are eager to support additional Delavan seniors or adults with mobility or nutrition challenges. Enrollment begins with a simple referral process. To get started, prospective clients—or a family member or caregiver—should call 309-674-1131, ext. 231, which connects directly to the office of Meals on Wheels Director Amanda McCoy.

To initiate a referral, callers will be asked to provide basic information:

• Name
• Address
• Phone number
• Date of birth
• Any known food allergies
• An emergency contact

Once the referral is submitted, a third party assessor contacts the potential client or their representative to complete a nutritional assessment. This conversation reviews the individual’s nutrition needs, any risks related to diet, and mobility or daily living challenges that may affect their ability to prepare meals.

There are no financial requirements to qualify for Meals on Wheels. If a person is not approved through the assessment but still wishes to receive meals, they may choose to participate privately at a cost of $8 per meal.

If approved, clients can begin receiving home-delivered meals shortly after the assessment is completed.

Program staff also noted that Delavan could explore establishing a Congregate Meal Site, similar to the one operating in Tremont on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Congregate sites offer free meals to adults aged 60 and older and provide a social setting designed to reduce isolation and strengthen community connections. Local leaders or organizations