How to apply for DISH Senior Restaurant Meal Program — Area Agency on Aging 3 (Allen County) in Ohio
Area Agency on Aging 3 (Lima) — Older Americans Act nutrition program for Allen, Auglaize, Hancock, Hardin, Mercer, Putnam and Van Wert counties.
Who it's for
DISH (Dining to Improve Socialization & Health) gives adults 60 and older a meal card to use at participating local restaurants, with menu choices that meet senior nutrition guidelines. Allen County has participating restaurants. Space is limited: everyone must apply each year, and spots go first to people with the highest nutritional risk, not first come, first served. Applications for the 2027 program year are taken October 1–31, 2026, by phone, online or in person. People enrolled in PASSPORT or MyCare, or getting home-delivered meals from the agency, cannot join DISH. Apply by calling Area Agency on Aging 3 at 419-222-7723 or 1-800-653-7723.
DISH has limited space. Applications are scored, and people with the highest nutritional risk are enrolled first; others go on a waitlist. You cannot be on PASSPORT or MyCare or getting the agency's home-delivered meals. A spouse, or a household member with a disability, may also apply. Apply October 1–31 each year.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhere to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 419-222-7723
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about DISH Senior Restaurant Meal Program — Area Agency on Aging 3 (Allen County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual — a new application is required each October for the next program year
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.