Minimum of 10 diners daily required to keep food on the table
The Fisher Branch Meal Program is in need of support, as it faces challenges in maintaining the numbers needed to operate five days a week. A minimum of 10 meals per day is required to sustain IERHA funding and cover essential expenses, including paying the cook. However, participation has dwindled to an average of just 5–7 meals per day.
“If these numbers don’t improve, the program may be forced to reduce its operation to three days a week, limiting an essential service for many seniors and community members,” said Jordyn Wilson, the Senior Resource Coordinator for Fisher Branch Senior Resource.
The program, which is managed by the Fisher Branch Senior Resource, has been instrumental in fostering social interactions among seniors who can gather for a meal in a friendly and welcoming environment. For those unable to leave their homes, delivery is available, particularly for seniors aged 65 and older who cannot drive. Delivery service has recently expanded to Hodgson two days a week and also includes Poplarfield. Although there is no additional fee for delivery, a $0.50 charge for takeout helps cover the cost of containers.
The program provides more than just meals—it offers a sense of connection and support to the residents of the RM of Fisher. Operating Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 9 Chalet Drive, Fisher Branch, the program delivers nutritious, affordable lunches to anyone who places an order by 9:30 a.m. the day of or the day before. Each meal includes a soup or salad, a main course with meat, starch, and vegetables, and a dessert, ensuring balanced and healthy nutrition for all participants. Coffee is also available for just $1 in the mornings.
Wilson, who has been the senior resource coordinator since August 2023, oversees the program and works closely with Merna, the dedicated cook who has been serving the Meals Program since March 2015. Their combined efforts ensure the program operates smoothly and continues to meet the needs of the community.
The Fisher Branch Senior Resource also offers other services, including crafts, bingo, shuffleboard, sing-alongs, and board game afternoons. They provide support with technology, transportation, and programs like Lifeline and E.R.I.K kits, making them an invaluable part of the community. The meal program complements these services by delivering not only food but also a sense of community.
To raise awareness and boost participation, the team uses multiple avenues, including posters, a Facebook page, and selling meal program gift certificates at local businesses. However, challenges persist, such as limited visibility of posters and the isolation that many seniors continue to experience after the COVID pandemic. Local residents can help sustain this program by ordering just a few meals a month or spreading the word about the service.
With its affordable prices, balanced meals, and meaningful social connections, the Fisher Branch Meal Program is more than just a meal service—it’s a connection for the community. To ensure its survival and continued impact, residents are encouraged to support this initiative and help keep it thriving for years to come.
Gift certificates are available all year round but are a great option for Christmas gift giving. If interested in being part of the lunch program or a gift certificate phone: 204-372-6861.
