The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) is accepting public comment on a proposed amendment that would allow Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) to use a limited portion of Older Americans Act Title III-C Congregate Nutrition funding for alternative meal distribution. The public comment period is open through January 15, 2026.
The proposal reflects updated federal regulations and would permit shelf-stable, pick-up, carry-out, drive-through, or similar meal options, capped at 25 percent of Title III-C-1 funds at both the state and local level. AGE emphasizes that alternative meal distribution is intended to complement congregate meals, not replace them, and would be targeted to older adults with emergency, occasional, or ongoing needs identified through individualized assessment.
AAAs choosing to pursue this option would be required to obtain pre-approval from AGE, follow new technical guidance and training requirements, and track participation to ensure congregate meal programs are not diminished. AGE reports that congregate meal participation has been returning to pre-pandemic levels and commits to ongoing monitoring.
The full proposed amendment is available on AGE’s website. Comments may be submitted to ElderConnections@age.ohio.gov with the subject line “PUBLIC COMMENT.”
LeadingAge Ohio encourages members engaged in nutrition and community-based services to review the proposal and consider providing input.