San Rafael, CA – The Marin County Board Supervisors will consider renewing the State of California’s Great Plates Delivered Program, set up to provide free meals to qualified older adults who are sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic and ineligible for other nutrition programs.
In partnership with the business community, the County of Marin participated in pilot program between May 18 and June 10, recruiting 28 local restaurants and catering companies to provide up to three meals per day to 717 older adults who were at high risk for the disease and met the program criteria. Encouraged by recent Board support, the Marin County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will request approval of a $976,016 budget appropriation to renew the program for the same 717 recipients and same 28 vendors between September 10 and October 9.
The same 717 program recipients will be automatically reinstated to the program if the Board of Supervisors approves the action during its August 25 meeting. There will be no need for them to re-enroll in Great Plates. The program also is a way for the County to support local restaurants and other food providers who are struggling financially because of the economic downturn related to COVID-19. There may be application openings if any of the 28 vendors decide not to participate in a renewed program. There is an especially strong need for service to West Marin recipients. Vendors may contact Kari Beuerman, Director for Social Services, with questions at 415-473-6263.
Expansion of Marin Great Plates to new recipients is not possible at this time, but other resources are available to needy residents via the HHS’ Information and Assistance Line, 415-473-INFO. “The pilot was well received by residents and the participating vendors alike,” Beuerman said. “Some older adults reported that it was the best they had eaten in years and that the program helped them come back to life during these difficult times. Restaurants commented that it was a gratifying and moving experience to see people in need enjoying the food they prepared. We’re glad the state created this program, which allows these vulnerable seniors to remain safe at home during this uncertain time as well as timely business for our local meal providers.”
The majority of the program costs potentially will be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of California. The remaining share of cost (6.25%) will be shared by the participating restaurants.
