Older residents in Washington County are reminded of a nutrition program being offered by the Heritage Area Agency on Aging.

The Encore Express program was launched a few months ago, offering meal vouchers to those 60 and older and their spouse, regardless of age. Participants can receive up to three vouchers per week per person to redeem for a hot or refrigerated meal at the Washington Hy-Vee. Heritage Agency Community Engagement Coordinator Harrison March shares one of the reasons they’ve launched this program in Washington, “It’s an area that’s identified as having a need for a nutrition program more services down there, and that’s more based on demographics, understanding the ages of people that live in Washington County, different communities. As well as some other things we can look at that help identify those needs such as income, such as the urban and rural makeup of an area.”

Heritage hopes to add a group dining component at Washington’s Immanuel Lutheran Church which would give opportunities for older adults to socialize, play games, and hear from local presenters about community events and resources. For now, those interested in Encore Express can call the Immanuel Lutheran Church at 319-653-3950 or visit during office hours from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday to get signed up for the meal vouchers. There is a suggested voluntary contribution of $5 per voucher, but no eligible person will be denied service due to an inability to make a contribution.