June 7, 2024 – Meal-A-Day in Sulphur Springs is now one step closer to moving into the kitchen at the recently opened Sulphur Springs Senior Citizen Activity Center at 301 Oak Ave. The Texas Food Bank re-certified them as a partner this week.
Because MAD relies partially on food provided by the Texas Food Bank, the TFB must inspect each facility before any TFB food can be shipped and stored. Most groups working with the food bank don’t actually cook and deliver meals. MAD of Sulphur Springs is a special case. Food purchased by MAD is already being moved to the new pantry and TFB provided food will soon start to move as well.
Without the help of the Texas Food Bank and donations from individuals and businesses, MAD could not continue to provide the $2 delivered meals to qualified seniors in Hopkins County. MAD also relies on a group of dedicated volunteers to cook and deliver the meals each weekday.
MAD has one final inspection to pass before cooking can begin… a health inspection. That inspection will examine everything that is checked at your favorite local restaurant. Freezer temps, water temps, sanitization procedures, etc.
The MAD board is confident that the kitchen and the equipment is ready to begin cooking. The City of Sulphur Springs spent a lot of time and money on the facility and the equipment. MAD is eager to make the move.
“We have been testing and practicing using the new equipment to make sure we are up to speed.” said MAD Board Member and volunteer cook Adam Whitson. “We are especially excited about the new dish sanitizer machine. It doesn’t use chemicals like the old one, just really really hot water.” Food safety is a top priority for MAD as some clients have immune system concerns.
The process of moving some foodstuffs has already began. Only those items not needed for meals occuring in the next several weeks have moved. Meal planning and coordinating the move fall on the shoulder of Amanda Dietlin, the MAD Director.
MAD and the SSSCAC will continue to work together when events require the use of the kitchen facility. Although MAD food can not be shared during such activities due to food bank rules. The kitchen equipment owned by MAD and the facilities and equipment provided by the City have always been shared between the two groups. Which makes sense as they both are in the business of serving seniors.
All SSSCAC activities are now happening at 301 Oak ave. Seniors will find the doors locked at the old location on MLK Drive.
