The Public Policy Research Institute (PPRI) is proud to announce the publication of a new open-access article in Discover Public Health, authored by Dr. Nandita Chaudhuri, Anthony Jackson, and Megumi Sakamoto, in collaboration with Ashleigh Williams and Linda Netterville.

Understanding barriers and facilitators to congregate meal program participation in Texas through a statewide needs assessment

Read the full article: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12982-025-00880-4

About the Study

Funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) under the Innovations in Nutrition (INNU) grant umbrella, this research explores the complex factors influencing participation in congregate meal programs for older adults across Texas. These programs, which offer nutritious meals in community settings, are vital for promoting food security, social connection, and independence among aging populations.

Through a comprehensive statewide needs assessment, the study identifies key barriers such as:

• Low public awareness of available services
• Stigma associated with program participation
• Physical and logistical limitations of facilities

In addition to identifying challenges, the research offers actionable strategies to improve outreach, accessibility, and engagement—ensuring that more older Texans can benefit from these essential services.

Collaborative Impact

This work would not have been possible without the support and partnership of:

Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)

Meals on Wheels of Texas

Texas Association of Regional Councils (TARC)

Their contributions and insights were instrumental in shaping a study that reflects the lived experiences and needs of older adults across diverse communities.

Why It Matters

As Texas continues to experience demographic shifts and an aging population, it is critical to adapt senior nutrition programs to meet evolving community needs. This research underscores the importance of:

• Reducing stigma and increasing awareness
• Enhancing facility accessibility
• Promoting inclusive, community-driven solutions

By addressing these issues, we can strengthen the infrastructure that supports older adults and ensure that congregate meal programs remain a cornerstone of healthy aging in Texas.

Explore the full article: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12982-025-00880-4