The Troy Nutrition Center turned 40 years young on Wednesday, and the clients celebrated in fine fashion, looking back at the center’s history and ahead to its future.

In surveying the gathering of senior adults, Troy Mayor Jason A. Reeves said he was looking at the many years of blessings that have been bestowed upon the Troy community.

“And, each and every one of you is a blessing and special to the City of Troy,” he told the senior adults.

Shelia Deveridge, center director, said the growth of the center has been tremendous over the 40 years and she envisions even greater future growth.

The Troy nutrition program started on Segars Street and topped out there at 25 clients. The program center was moved to the Dunbar Housing Authority, then to the senior center on Elm Street and now to its “forever” home on East Walnut Street in downtown Troy.

Charlie Terry, age 96, is the only client who was with the nutrition program when it began 40 years ago and continues to participate today.

“The Troy Nutrition Program has been at different locations but with the same purpose,” Deveridge said. “We are here to provide a good, nutritious lunch for our clients for their physical health and fun and fellowship for their mental and emotional well-being.”

The Troy Nutrition Center provides 123 meals a day to senior citizens in Troy and Pike County.

“We have 50 clients who come to the center for lunch and we provide 73 take out meals for those who are unable to come to the center,” Deveridge said. “For those who come to the center, this is their home away from home. They look forward to coming here for the fellowship, for Bible study and choir. They come to play dominoes, checker, Bingo and Wii games. We’ve got it all.”
Deveridge said senior adults who stay active and involved are less likely to become lonely and depressed. “It has been found that activity and good emotional health can prolong life,” Deveridge said. “The Troy Nutrition Center is a great place to come and be among seniors who are enjoying life and continuing to make contributions to their community. Mayor Reeves was so right. This building is filled with blessings, 50 of them every day and they make life better and brighter for all of us,” she said.

The Troy Nutrition was recently granted five additional slots and Deveridge said more growth is certain in the future.

“Good things are happening at the Troy Nutrition Center and we look forward to another 40 years and more,” she said. “We have the best and we are the best.”

For information about the Troy Nutrition Center call 566-0201.