The Mid-East Area Agency on Aging Foundation will use $10,000 in Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits approved by the Missouri Department of Economic Development to support nutrition programs for people 60 years old and older.

The MEAAA Foundation serves the counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin and Jefferson. The programs, administered by the foundation’s affiliate organization, the Mid-East Area Agency on Aging, include Meals on Wheels and meals at such senior centers as the one in south county at 9451 Gentry Ave.

MEAAA Foundation Executive Director Mary E. Schaefer noted federal and state funding for senior meals programs has been virtually flat for the last several years while expenses continue to rise.

“Senior programs need community support right now,” Schaefer stated in a news release. “The NAP credits will make it easier for businesses to contribute to these meals programs and make it possible for older adults to continue living in their own homes.

“Meals on Wheels are especially important to seniors recuperating from illness or surgery,” Schaefer added. “In many cases, a nutritious hot lunch helps make their recovery easier. They can get well at home, in their own neighborhoods, instead of in a nursing facility.”

By offering the credits, Schaefer said, the MEAAA Foundation could generate an additional $20,000 in donations to feed seniors in need.

With NAP credits, the MEAAA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, can offer businesses a tax credit equal to 50 percent of their total contribution to the MEAAA nutrition program.

Businesses can donate cash, materials, supplies or equipment; technical assistance and professional services; labor; real estate; or stocks and bonds. The Missouri Department of Economic Development administers the Neighborhood Assistance Program.

For more information about donating to the MEAAA Foundation and applying for NAP credits, call John Gamache at (636) 207-0847, Ext. 106.