Area Agency on Aging 3 Announces New Application Process for DISH Program

LIMA, Ohio –  Area Agency on Aging 3 is updating the community regarding important upcoming changes to the DISH program. Due to the increased demand and popularity of the Dining to Improve Socialization and Health (DISH) program, we have been forced to pivot and reevaluate programmatic structure.

Key Program Changes

• Annual application process: All participants, including those currently enrolled, must apply each year during October 1–31 to be considered for enrollment in the following year.
• Enrollment prioritization: Applications will continue to be reviewed using a scoring process, with priority given to those at the highest nutritional risk.
• Enrollment year: Runs January 1–December 31. Enrolled participants receive four DISH meal credits per month.
• Reapplication required: To reiterate, even current program participants must reapply this October for 2026 enrollment.

Timeline

• Week of September 22 – Notices mailed informing active and waitlist participants of upcoming changes
• October 1–31, 2025 – Application period open
• November 2025 — Enrollment capacity internally reviewed and finalized
• December 2025 – All applicants notified of enrollment or waitlist status; DISH cards distributed to those approved

Area Agency on Aging 3 Nutrition Team members will be available throughout the month of October for application assistance at the agency in Allen County. Team members will also be establishing dates and times to be available in the other counties within the service area, including Auglaize, Hancock, Hardin, Mercer, Putnam, and Van Wert counties.

Applications will be available at www.aaa3.org beginning October 1^st. Individuals can also seek application assistance in person at Area Agency on Aging 3, 2423 Allentown Road, Lima during specific times and dates in October. Those dates are: October 1^st, October 6^th, and October 22^nd from 9AM-12 Noon and on October 16^th from 1-3PM.

Individuals may also call the agency at 419-222-7723 or direct any questions or concerns related to these changes to nutrition@psa3.org.