OAA Title III-C Nutrition Services (Meals on Wheels / Congregate Meals)

Older Americans Act Title III-C funds home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels) and congregate meals at senior centers for adults age 60 and older. One of the highest-volume, lowest-barrier programs reducing family caregiver burden — eliminating meal preparation and providing daily welfare checks for the care recipient. The 2024 OAA final rule retained pandemic-era carry-out meal flexibilities. The common AAA entry point that often leads to referrals for additional caregiver support.

Two sub-programs: (1) III-C1 Congregate Meals (ALN 93.045) — nutritious meals at senior centers and community sites, typically 5 days/week; social contact reduces isolation and caregiver burden. (2) III-C2 Home-Delivered Meals (ALN 93.053) — Meals on Wheels delivered to homebound adults 60+, typically 5 days/week (hot or frozen); delivery volunteers also provide safety check/welfare contact. The 2024 OAA final rule (effective March 15, 2024) retained pandemic-era flexibilities including carry-out meals at congregate sites. Suggested contribution but not required; income not a barrier. For family caregivers: eliminates meal preparation for the care recipient and provides daily contact that supplements the caregiver's monitoring. Serves millions of older adults annually. Spouse of any age may receive meals if the enrolled participant receives home-delivered meals. Find local program at eldercare.acl.gov or Meals on Wheels America (mealsonwheelsamerica.org).

Some details for this program are still being verified. Check the official source for the most current information.

Eligibility

• Care recipient age: at least 60

Services

Two sub-programs: (1) III-C1 Congregate Meals (ALN 93.045) — nutritious meals at senior centers and community sites, typically 5 days/week; social contact reduces isolation and caregiver burden. (2) III-C2 Home-Delivered Meals (ALN 93.053) — Meals on Wheels delivered to homebound adults 60+, typically 5 days/week (hot or frozen); delivery volunteers also provide safety check/welfare contact. The 2024 OAA final rule (effective March 15, 2024) retained pandemic-era flexibilities including carry-out meals at congregate sites. Suggested contribution but not required; income not a barrier. For family caregivers: eliminates meal preparation for the care recipient and provides daily contact that supplements the caregiver's monitoring. Serves millions of older adults annually. Spouse of any age may receive meals if the enrolled participant receives home-delivered meals. Find local program at eldercare.acl.gov or Meals on Wheels America (mealsonwheelsamerica.org).

How to apply

Apply online or find more information at the official program page.