Actions Inc. warns of federal funding cut; Manvel council donates $2,500 to help seniors

Actions Inc. of Brazoria County updated Manvel’s City Council on senior nutrition and transportation services and described a significant federal funding cut that has constrained client onboarding.

Bria Canales, Actions Inc.’s executive director, said the agency served more than 130,000 meals countywide last year and provided nearly 18,000 transportation trips for seniors. In Manvel alone the agency serves roughly 150 seniors; in the first five months of the fiscal year it delivered nearly 2,000 home meals within city limits and provided roughly 400 transportation trips last year.

Canales said the agency received a 58% cut in a federal funding stream from HGAC that required it to pause onboarding new clients on Oct. 1 and put several local initiatives on hold — including a plan for a Manvel senior center. She said Actions Inc. is prioritizing seniors 90 and older, veterans and the most vulnerable while seeking local partners and new funding sources to resume onboarding.

Council responded with immediate and practical support. Mayor Pro Tem David Lance presented a $2,500 check from the council/staff to help add a small number of clients; staff and council members also offered to help with community outreach and fundraising.

Canales estimated the all-in cost for a home-delivered‑meal recipient at roughly $2,000 per year, meaning the city’s gift could pay for several clients to be added while the agency solicits more sustainable funding.

Next steps: Actions Inc. will work with city staff and council members on outreach and partnerships to expand capacity and resume onboarding on a controlled basis as new funding allows.