Baltimore County’s Eating Together program offers free-access congregate meals, social connection for residents 60+

Becky Ebert, BCDA nutrition manager, told listeners that the Baltimore County Eating Together program provides a healthy, balanced meal and social programming for adults 60 and older at senior centers and community nutrition sites across the county. "It's more than just food," Ebert said, "it's a program that helps older adults stay active, connected, and engaged by sharing a meal with other seniors in a social setting."

Ebert said meals are planned to provide about one‑third of an older adult's daily nutritional need and typically include lean protein, vegetables, whole grains or starches, fresh fruit and milk. Examples she gave included baked chicken or fish, meatloaf, and turkey with gravy; vegetarian entrees are offered about once a month. "These meals follow federal nutrition guidelines," she said, and select sites offer kosher or halal options.

The program does not charge a required fee but asks for a voluntary contribution; Ebert cited about $4 for the regular meal and about $5 for special meals such as kosher or halal. She added, "If you can't contribute, you're still welcome. You will not be turned away for financial reason."

Beyond congregate meals, Ebert described other services of the Baltimore County nutrition office, including nutrition education led by the county nutritionist Jessica O'Hara Anderson and connections to aging services and resources. She highlighted the senior farmers market distribution program through the Maryland Department of Agriculture, which provides eligible older adults with coupons to purchase fresh produce at local farmers markets, and said listeners should check back in April for details.

Ebert also described a county partnership with Meals on Wheels, which she said has become the congregate meal vendor for the county's sites and has allowed the nutrition office more flexibility to offer varied menus. She noted a county director, referred to on-air as "Director Tan," joined a delivery ride-along to observe service logistics.

To participate, Ebert advised callers to contact their local senior center or the Baltimore County nutrition office for site-specific sign-up steps and schedules. She also mentioned the county's "No Senior Eats Alone" day in September, when special meals and activities will emphasize social connection.

The interview concluded with Ebert inviting older adults to try the Eating Together program or other Baltimore County nutrition programs planned for 2026.