The Huron County Senior Center offers more than just hot meals—it serves as a welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and take part in engaging activities. Since Thumb Food Services Inc. took over meal services last fall, the center has seen a noticeable improvement in both food quality and attendance.
With a dedicated team preparing fresh meals and a variety of programs fostering social connections, the center has become a vital gathering place for the community’s older residents.
Key Takeaways
Huron County Senior Center provides nutritious meals, social activities, and community support for local seniors.
- The center offers high-quality, fresh meals with a variety of options to cater to individual preferences.
- It serves as a social hub where seniors can connect through various activities like bingo and arts and crafts sessions.
- Volunteers deliver meals to homebound seniors, ensuring they stay connected to the community.
A focus on quality and variety in meals
Seniors visiting the center can expect meals that are both nutritious and flavorful. On a typical Thursday, the menu might include meat lovers pizza, Italian pasta in a zesty tomato sauce, fresh salads, vegetables, and homemade banana bread for dessert. Beverage options include white and chocolate milk, as well as juice.
Meals are served cafeteria-style, giving diners the option to customize their trays based on their preferences. This flexibility allows each person to create a meal that suits their tastes while still providing balanced nutrition.
Behind the scenes, Susan Selleke and her sons, Tom and George, oversee meal preparation. They also run Angelina’s Eatery & HUCO Brew Co. in Ubly, bringing restaurant-quality food service experience to the center’s kitchen. Their focus on fresh ingredients and careful preparation has earned praise from regular visitors like Iva Tschirhart, who noted a clear improvement in both taste and presentation since Thumb Food Services took over.
A place to connect and engage
The senior center is more than just a dining hall—it’s a social hub. The lively atmosphere in the dining room is filled with conversations as seniors catch up with old friends and make new connections.
In addition to meals, the center offers various activities to keep visitors engaged. Pool tables are available for friendly games, and bingo sessions, often hosted by Bad Axe City Councilman Dan Glaza, bring people together for some lighthearted competition.
Glaza has observed a significant increase in attendance since the improved meal program began. For many seniors, these activities provide more than entertainment—they offer a sense of community and belonging that is essential for mental and emotional well-being.
Supporting seniors beyond the center
The Huron County Senior Center’s impact extends beyond those who are able to visit in person. Volunteers and staff also coordinate meal deliveries for seniors who cannot travel to the center due to health or mobility challenges. These deliveries ensure that individuals who are homebound still receive nutritious meals and maintain a connection to the community.
Glaza emphasized the dedication of the volunteers who contribute their time to keeping these services running smoothly. From serving food to organizing activities and delivering meals, these individuals play a crucial role in the success of the center’s programs.
Programs that keep seniors active
While the meal program is a major draw, the senior center also offers a variety of programs aimed at keeping seniors active and engaged.
Arts and crafts sessions allow participants to explore their creativity, while exercise classes help maintain physical health. The center also hosts educational workshops designed to keep seniors mentally sharp, covering topics such as technology, health, and financial literacy.
These programs serve as a vital resource for seniors looking to stay active, continue learning, and build meaningful relationships.
A growing role in the community
With congregate meals served three days a week and a steady increase in participation, the Huron County Senior Center continues to strengthen its role as a cornerstone of senior community life. More than just a place to eat, it provides a support system for older adults, helping them stay connected and engaged.
For those interested in getting involved—whether as a volunteer or as a participant—reaching out to the center is a great way to become part of a thriving community that values both good food and strong social connections.
