The Changes

If you are currently receiving meals and have not been informed of transition plans, you are likely to continue receiving meals. You may consult our communities or meal options pages to find what is being offered in your community. If you are concerned for your meal continuation, please call your site manager or our main office number at (605) 394-6002.

The State of South Dakota's Department of Human Services and Long Term Support and Services (DHS / LTSS) decided to transfer home delivery meals in certain communities to Interlakes Community Action Program (ICAP). Though it is never our wish to discontinue service to any community in western South Dakota, we are grateful for the opportunity to continue feeding 37 communities and partner with a trusted organization like ICAP in that mission.

Meal interruptions are very likely. As ICAP adjusts to an unfamiliar region, their home delivery meals are likely to be delayed for a week or more. ICAP plans on their first bulk delivery in the week of October 16th, though distribution plans are unclear. Meals on Wheels will be distributing surplus meals to help cover the gap in coverage in transitioning communities. After October 1st, these meals are not contracted and will be funded 100% by the generosity of the community. If you would like to help us provide meals during this stage, please visit our donate page.

Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership (ICAP) is a community based non-profit organization which serves primarily low-income families and senior citizens in a 14-county area of East Central South Dakota, and now parts of Western South Dakota. They administer a variety of programs supported through grants, donations, and other community resources to assist participants and their communities, including senior meals.

Visit ICAP's website.

ICAP has been contracted by South Dakota DHS / LTSS to replace Meals on Wheels home delivery with ICAP bulk meal deliveries in the communities of Sturgis, Black Hawk, Box Elder, Hot Springs, Edgemont, Lemmon, and Martin.

ICAP will be providing bulk deliveries of frozen meals. Sources indicate that there will be 20 frozen meals per delivery containing at least 3 oz. of protein, two vegetables (typically a potato and another traditional vegetable), milk, and bread. Quality, balanced, nutritious meals, are flash frozen in specialty sealed containers. These can be heated in a microwave, or oven, and provide one third of daily recommended nutrition amounts. 

It is not entirely clear how often ICAP will be visiting or delivering to homes as no staff or delivery schedules have been implemented. Some sources indicate that ICAP plans to deliver frozen meals once a month to seniors, with each delivery equaling 20 meals. 

Under ICAP, there will be no daily delivery or wellness checks.

Seniors and caregivers seeking home-delivered meal services in Sturgis, Hot Springs, Edgemont, Lemmon, and Martin must contact ICAP to sign up by calling 605-291-0911 or emailing ssantema@interlakescap.com

We understand what ICAP is providing may not be appropriate for your needs. Meals on Wheels is currently in discussion with State administrators to find a solution to fit the needs of all seniors. As we are no longer contracted for home delivery meals in the communities of Sturgis, Hot Springs, Edgemont, and Martin, a home delivery meal after October 1st will be full cost and provided by the generosity of the community or through personal means (Private Pay). 

If you would like to donate meals during this stage, please visit our donate page. 

If you would like to purchase meals for yourself or a loved one, Private Pay is always available. Learn about Private Pay here, or call and discuss your needs with our staff at (605) 394-6002.

ICAP’s 60’s Plus Dining is an adult meal program serving quality nutritious meals to any person aged 60 or over, and their spouses. ICAP will deliver frozen Meal Packs under its senior nutrition program, following a competitive selection process by the South Dakota Department of Human Services. Seniors and caregivers in affected areas must contact ICAP at 605-291-0911 or ssantema@interlakescap.com to enroll. 

The Red Barn Bakery is currently offering an alternative service and a solution for local senior meals. Click to see their October Menu. For more details, call the Red Barn at (605) 374-2253.

Grab n Go meals are a new option of packaged meals ordered in advanced for pick up at your community's dining site (similar to takeout). If you would like to place a Grab n Go order for pickup, please call your site manager or our main office number at (605) 394-6002.

You can help by simply sharing the positive impact of Senior Meals Programs like Meals on Wheels. The more advocacy for senior services we have, the more impactful it will be to our representatives, lawmakers, and local supporters. 

Visit our How to Help Page.

Your support is needed now more than ever. Donate meals today.