CHRISTIAN COUNTY, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – At the Pennyrile Aera Development District board meeting in Hopkinsville on June 8, potentially severe funding reductions to the senior home delivered meals program was addressed. This is not the first time the statewide program has been put at risk, with extreme cuts also announced last fiscal year before Gov. Andy Beshear reallocated funds.
Director of Aging & Independent Living Amanda Stokes announced the shortfall to board members, saying that they received a formal notice from the Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living that disclosed a reduction of $9.1 million for senior meal programs throughout the state.
PACS programs such as these are intended to help seniors maintain their independence while having consistent access to nutrition. Volunteers often act as a lifeline for seniors as they also form connections with individuals in addition to preparing and delivering the food.
History of attempted cuts to meal program
In September of 2025, Kentucky-wide cuts resulted in a local shortfall of nearly $1.5 million for the meal program. At the time, PeADD and PACS staff determined that the funding reduction could not be absorbed without substantial cuts to service. As a result, PACS in Christian County transitioned to a three-day-per-week food delivery schedule for seniors as a temporary solution…