The Fayette Senior Center is preparing to re-open to indoor patronage for the first time since shutting down for the COVID-19 pandemic on March 16, 2020. The center will open Monday, May 10, with a new set of safety standards, according to the center’s administrator, Jennifer Barnhill.

Under new safety measures, masks are to be worn inside the building but may be removed once the patron is seated at a dining table. Masks will be made available to any participant who does not already have one. Reservations are also available, but not mandatory. Curbside pickup meals will continue for as long as possible.

A non-profit organization, the Fayette Senior Center is made possible through the financial support by the local community, groups, Fayette Area Common Fund, and Aging Best (Central Missouri Agency on Aging). Barnhill said the center counts on donations, memorials, fundraisers, volunteers, and community support to maintain the resource for the seniors in this community.

“Our mission is to enhance the lives of Howard County senior citizens,” Barnhill said. “We aid the seniors in developing activity options and providing meals to both congregate and homebound clients in the hope it helps them maintain their independence for as long as possible. Our goal is not just to offer a place to eat but a place to be able to socialize and to have monthly recreational activities. It’s also a place to gather information, referrals, and educational materials, and activities.”

Regular activities include a morning coffee club, Bingo on Wednesdays and Fridays, and card games such as bridge and canasta. A quilters club meets every third Tuesday of the month and is always open to new members. Birthdays and holidays are celebrated monthly. A monthly activity calendar is available with special events, informational classes, and more.

 A suggested donation of $4 toward the cost of each meal is appreciated, but no eligible participant will be denied service for inability to contribute. Eligible patrons must be 60 years of age or older, and spouses are included regardless of age. The cost for those below 60 years of age is $6.50 per meal. The center is open Monday through Friday. Soup is served at 10:30 a.m. Lunch is available from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The center also offers home-delivered frozen meals for those who are homebound and unable to attend the congregate program. 

The noon meal meets one-third of the daily nutrition requirements, is cooked on-site, and is currently being served curbside. No reservations are necessary. Menus are posted at the senior center and are printed weekly on Page 2 of this newspaper.

“We also offer daily telephone assurance calls and friendly visits Monday through Friday,” explained Barnhill. 

To retain services or ask questions, contact Barnhill at (660) 248-3733.