Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Restaurant Program?
The Restaurant Program was designed to provide participants with another option for healthy, nutritious, and delicious meals and socialization opportunities. Our main objectives are to:
- Provide services to underserved populations within Sacramento County.
- Provide more culturally-relevant meals to diverse population of Sacramento County.
What’s included in the Restaurant Program?
Through the Restaurant Program, participants will receive a meal card that will be loaded with meal credits that can be redeemed at a participating location. Each meal has been designed and approved by our dietitian to meet at least one-third of the dietary reference intakes for older adults. Each meal will include:
- A main entrée with a grain such as bread, pasta, or rice
- Vegetable side dish
- Fresh fruit, fruit cup, dried fruit, or fruit juice
- Dairy such as milk, yogurt, or cheese
How much does a Restaurant Program meal cost?
The meals provided to our Restaurant Program participants are partially funded by various grants and from donations we receive from community members.
This means there is no fee for the meal, however, a suggested contribution of $6 or any amount you are able to make is greatly appreciated and will directly support the program. No one is denied service due to inability to contribute.
Tips are not included and are at the discretion of each participant.
Can I visit all the restaurants and have one meal from each in a single day?
We ask that participants only visit one restaurant location per day and receive one-meal per day. Therefore, you cannot visit multiple sites to obtain a meal from each.
Do I have to stay at the restaurant to eat my meal? Can I order my one meal to go?
The meals are only available for dine-in, however, you may request a to-go box whenever you feel done with your meal.
Do I have to visit the restaurant every single day?
This program is intended to provide participants the flexibility to visit our participating restaurants on their own time, therefore, you do not have to go every day if you do not wish to.
Can I have my friends/family member(s) pick up for me if I am unable to?
Participants are required to visit the restaurant site in person in order to receive their meal. We understand this may put an undue hardship on some households.
What if I cannot use the program due to an illness, hospitalization or extended vacation?
As a participant, we can hold your account open for up to 30 days for any reason and keep your enrollment in the program. IF we are not notified of your return or given an update on your status, your meal services may be in jeopardy. Please call us at (916)586-8431 for any questions or concerns about program utilization.
I have transportation issues and need help getting meals. Are you able to provide a ride or can the restaurant meals be delivered to me?
The Restaurant program is designed to provide seniors not only with a meal but it is also meant to provide seniors with an opportunity to socialize. For this reason, our meals cannot be delivered to your home. We can provide resources to organizations and agencies in the Sacramento area that offer alternative transportation options for seniors.
For the Restaurant Program, can I suggest some locations that are closer to me?
We encourage our participants to provide us with feedback and ideas for new meals or new partnerships with local meal providers. You can provide us with feedback by emailing us at ntc@mowsac.org or calling our Restaurant Program team at (916) 586-8431.