The non-profit Meals that Connect has been serving meals to seniors for 35 years. Photo courtesy of Meals that Connect
Nutrition and socializing are vital to wellness, but some area seniors struggle to get both. A non-profit in SLO County has worked to fill those needs for decades and hopes to reach even more.
Meals that Connect (MTC) began work in San Luis Obispo County in 1974 and became an incorporated nonprofit organization in 1991. MTC, the Senior Nutrition Program of SLO County, provides meals, wellness programs, and human connection. By providing free hot meals in a group setting or delivering them to the homebound, the program helps seniors maintain independence for a longer period, get 30 percent of their daily nutrition, and stay socially connected. Client contributions are welcomed but are completely voluntary and are based on what each individual feels comfortable contributing.
“Programs like Meals That Connect reminds us that caring for our seniors is both a responsibility and a reflection of our values,” said Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) at a recent anniversary celebration. “Their work helps older adults remain independent in their own homes while giving families the peace of mind that someone is checking in and looking out for their loved ones. It’s an invaluable service that strengthens our communities, and one we’re fortunate to have here in our County.”
MTC serves any senior, age 60 or older, who asks for their service regardless of income. They serve free noontime meals Monday through Friday, with frozen meals for weekends and holidays. Items on the menu are different every day of the month ranging from chicken enchiladas to pesto chicken cheese manicotti to Hawaiian chicken salad. All come with a glass of milk, a veggie and fruit.
From July 2024 to July 2025 219,685 meals were served. In the same time frame from 2023-2024, 197,826 meals were served. Overall, 60% of those utilizing the program are women, and among them, half live alone and 38% are living at or below the poverty level. Those numbers are expected to increase.
Photo courtesy of Meals that Connect
“The need is great now and we expect it to grow as the average age of the county’s population climbs,” Ashley Murphy, MTC grants and communications manager, told Estero Bay News. “San Luis Obispo County has a higher percentage of residents over 60 than the state or national average. According to the 2020 census, 20% of San Luis Obispo County residents are over 65. The California Department of Aging predicts an 89% increase in the population of residents over 65 by the year 2060.”
As far as the North Coast, MTC serves 220 clients daily with home delivery and congregate clients combined. Murphy said Cayucos and Morro Bay are underserved, and they are working on more outreach in both those areas. Atascadero and Oceano are the sites that see the most need and continue to grow. In 2025, there were talks of closing the Los Osos site at the South Bay Community Center where free hot lunches are prepared for delivery every weekday with an on-site group dining experience on Fridays at 1:30 p.m.
There will be a free open house at the Community Center, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos, on August 28 from 12 to 3 p.m. The event includes live jazz music, appetizers and refreshments, lunch prepared by the MTC team, tours of the site, opportunities to meet staff, volunteers, and community partners; and information about services available to older adults. RSVP by August 20 to mmcshea@mealsthatconnect.org. Another open house will be held in Cambria on September 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2700 Eaton Rd.
“We want to make an effort to engage the Los Osos community to increase awareness.” Murphy said. “In addition to providing meals, we foster meaningful social connections that help reduce isolation and support the overall well-being of older adults. We are hoping to grab the attention of the community beyond those in need to experience what we offer. We have opportunities for volunteering not only for adults but teenagers as well. Providing service to others is heartfelt and fulfilling. We know families are caring for their aging parents and family members; they may not be aware of our services. Meals that Connect is local and here to help.”
MTC also offers resource contacts for items such as; local food banks, home healthcare, clothing resources, and if needed, Adult Protective Services calls.
Things have been tough for many non-profits and MTC is among those facing funding losses.
“Grant monies awarded by the California Department of Aging have seen budget reductions over the last two years,” Murphy said. “From the fiscal year ending June of 2025 to June of 2026, funds awarded from CDA went down by over $600,000.”
Rent for sites to work out of, staffing, and food costs are the three largest budget items. They have 10 dining sites; all have at least one paid staff member and volunteers to assist in the day-to-day operations.
For more information, reservations, register for programs or to find out what is on the menu, go to mealsthatconnect.org. Reservations are required at least two days in advance, to make sure there will be food. MTC also serves seniors in Santa Barba County, so tell a friend.
Government funding, designated to provide nutrition for senior citizens, first became available in 1974. State and County designated entities were established to manage this programming, thus the birth of the Area Agency on Aging. In 1981, The Economic Opportunity Commission (EOC), now CAPSLO, took over the San Luis Obispo Senior Nutrition Program. The EOC struggled to make the program financially sustainable for 10 years before handing it back over to the AAA.
