We want to inform you of upcoming changes to the Mansfield Senior Center’s hours of operation and dining room meal schedule. These changes will begin Monday, July 21, 2025.
For Congregants Visiting the Center:
Monday:
- The center will be open for social activities only — enjoy pool, cards, and more.
- No meal will be served in the dining room.
- Tentative hours: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM (subject to change week-to-week as needed).
Tuesday – Friday:
- The center will operate as usual from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Lunch will be served daily at 11:30 AM.
For Home Delivered Meals Participants:
Monday:
- No delivery routes will run on Mondays.
- You will receive a frozen meal on Thursday or Friday of the prior week to cover Monday’s meal.
Tuesday – Friday:
- Delivery routes will run on their regular schedule.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to site director, Ashli Black at 479-928-4429.
The Bigger Picture:
Urgent Funding Shortfalls
These adjustments come amid a critical funding shortfall facing all senior centers in the region. Deanna Rice, Executive Director of Region 8 Senior Centers, reports heartbreaking realities—including the first-ever food waitlist for seniors in her 20-year tenure.
“In my 20 years, I have never had to turn someone away because we did not have enough food,” Rice shared.
Cuts include a staggering $34,333 reduction in USDA funding, while staff—already working with limited hours and without benefits—face increasing financial uncertainty. Rising maintenance and fuel costs for programs like Meals on Wheels further compound the crisis.
Legislative support is urgently needed to sustain these programs. Anyone with questions or wishing to help can contact Deanna Rice at 479-648-9970.
