InterServ shares long-term effects of government shutdown on services

By: Noel Hardin

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Despite the congressional vote to approve a spending bill and the end of the government shutdown, local agencies like InterServ are grappling with its lasting effects, including a 75% reduction in federal funding, forcing significant changes to its operations.

The organization, which provides critical food assistance to seniors through programs like Meals on Wheels, has lost approximately $400,000 in federal aid since Nov. 1, leading to reduced food orders and fewer meals served.

Angie Gardner, the director of senior nutrition at InterServ, compared the program's recovery to a slow-moving ship.

"It takes a lot to start moving to decrease meals," Gardner said. "I have to order less food; it trickles down. Even if they gave us money today, it would take weeks to ramp back up to normal service."

With SNAP benefits still on hold, InterServ has seen increased demand at its food pantry and supplemental programs.

Jeannie Miller, a regular InterServ client, emphasized the program's importance beyond nutrition.

"Without places like here, people would have a harder time socializing and getting meals," Miller said. "They're the ones that need help now."

Executive Director Bridget Supple acknowledged how the funding crisis will fundamentally change how InterServ helps seniors.

"I suspect we'll have a much different meals program going forward," Supple said. "It will change the way we serve people for a good long time. But I don't necessarily see that as a bad thing; it's an opportunity to look at better ways to serve them, like working with In-Home Services to determine who might be eligible for caregivers to prepare meals."

Despite the challenges, InterServ has received an influx of food donations and hasn't had to turn people away.

The organization is also preparing for potential increased demand for rental, utility and bill assistance if healthcare premiums rise in the shutdown's aftermath.