HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – On Oct. 20 Gov. Andy Beshear announced the reallocation of $9.1 million to the Aging and Independent Living appropriation for the Senior Meals program following news that Area Development Districts (ADDs) have exhausted all previously budgeted funding for the program.

The Pennyrile Area Development District (PeADD) was impacted by previous federal cuts of around $1.5 million locally, having to pivot in order to continue serving hundreds of seniors the community. In response, PACS in Christian County transitioned to a three-day-per-week food delivery schedule as a temporary solution.

According to a news release, Gov. Beshear will use $9.1 million from the $25 million General Fund appropriation in fiscal year 2026 to Medicaid for “Medicaid Reimbursement Rebasing Efforts” for the Senior Meals program. The $25 million was contingent on approval of a proposal by the General Assembly that did not occur and therefore is available for reallocation to the Aging and Independent Living appropriation unit for the Senior Meals program.

The Governor requested that the General Assembly retroactively approve the movement of the $9.1 million, which leadership has agreed to do.

What this means for PACS and PeADD

Moments before the announcement was made by Beshear on Oct. 20, he held a call with ADD leaders from across the state to share the news. During that call, Gov. Beshear also shared plans to request that the Finance Cabinet review the entire Senior Meals program to understand future funding needs and ensure consistent practices across the program.

PeADD Executive Director Jason Vincent told Christian County Now that as of Oct. 21, they are still unsure about how the funds will be distributed across the state. He is hopeful that this funding will match last fiscal year’s expenses and successfully cover the deficit, allowing them to transition back to their full five day a week schedule.

Vincent added that they were able to get a brief look at the plan for funding and will receive a concrete dollar amount soon. After that information is received, it may take PACS some time to reup food orders and staffing before they are able to accommodate a full schedule again.

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