At TRIO Community Meals, we cherish and honor the partnerships and bonds we create with each of our clients. Together, we share a powerful mission: to nourish communities and uplift older adults through the universal language of food. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, nutritious meals strengthens these relationships, fosters positive change, and supports older adults in aging in place—living independently, with dignity, in the comfort of their own homes.
To demonstrate TRIO’s unwavering support, we sat down with Darren Dunaway from the Human Services Association (HSA). HSA is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to families, promoting wellness, and building strong communities. TRIO has been a proud partner of HSA for 36 years, continuously striving to enhance the quality of life for their participants through our meal services.
To highlight how TRIO supports agencies like HSA in delivering on their mission, the following sections explore key areas where our partnership makes a meaningful impact.
Meeting The Challenge of Government Funding for Nutrition Programs
Many agencies like HSA rely on government funding to sustain their critical programs. However, securing adequate financial support presents an ongoing challenge. As Darren explains, “We face the ongoing challenge of convincing the government to adjust funding rates. As expenses increase, we’re left to manage the gap. Our goal is to advocate for fair rates that ensure the sustainability of our programs. While the government allocates significant funding, those funds often increase at a slower pace than the actual costs we face, creating financial strain.”
TRIO recognizes the importance of these funding challenges and actively works to alleviate financial challenges for our partners. This issue extends beyond HSA; it is a common concern among many agencies and programs striving to meet the growing demand for essential services. We are committed to providing the highest quality meals at the most cost-effective prices, ensuring that HSA can continue serving those in need.
Supporting Meal Program Growth & Expansion
Our long-standing partnership with HSA has been instrumental in expanding meal access to countless individuals. As their organization has grown, TRIO has been there. Darren reflects on this, stating: “Over time, our organization has taken on six additional agencies, and TRIO has supported us through this growth, constantly negotiating fair rates and providing the support we needed.”
This collaboration has been built on trust, respect, and a shared vision of service. Strong communication, clear expectations, and a commitment to excellence have enabled both TRIO and HSA to navigate challenges and achieve continued success.
Ensuring Reliable and Seamless Meal Delivery
At TRIO, we handle the complexities of meal delivery so that our partners can focus on their core mission–caring for their communities. One of our top priorities is ensuring that meals are delivered reliably, efficiently, and on time. As Darren notes, “TRIO understands the details and logistics involved. From food preparation to routes and delivery timelines, they recognize the importance of ensuring meals reach people before lunch. Their deep understanding of our operations goes beyond a typical partnership – it’s a commitment to helping us meet the needs of our clients seamlessly.”
This level of dependability and dedication sets TRIO apart. We understand that the people our partners serve rely on us both for nourishment and consistency. By upholding the highest standards of service and collaboration, we continue to empower organizations like HSA to thrive and make a meaningful impact on their communities.
TRIO Community Meals and HSA: A Shared Mission for the Future
Our shared mission is more than just providing meals; it’s about sustaining lives, fostering well-being, and ensuring that no one is left behind. We are honored to work alongside HSA and look forward to many more years of partnership, growth, and service.
Partner with TRIO for Your Non-profit’s Nutrition Program
At TRIO, we believe that strong partnerships fuel stronger communities—and strengthen our partners’ missions to provide quality nutrition to the people they serve in their communities. If your organization is looking for a trusted, mission-driven meal provider committed to reliability, quality, and compassion, TRIO is here to partner with you. Let’s start the conversation. Contact us today to learn how TRIO can support your mission.
