Nutrition Center ready for move to new site

No steps, less noise, more space.
Three of the biggest advantages of the Hannibal Nutrition Center’s new $1.2 million home have nothing to do with food.
The center hosted its last meal Thursday at Sixth and Church.
Starting Tuesday, lunches will be served at a renovated former tire store at 10th and Lyon. Many people who are regulars say they can’t wait.
“This is like a big family here, but it’s going to be even better over there,” said Carl Barbee, as he enjoyed a visit with table-mates.
“We’re not going to miss this place,” said Milton Muehring. “It’s crowded and noisy.”
The new building will offer five times the space of the current center and everything will be on one level.
There also will be more parking and the building has energy-saving features such as a geothermal heat pump and a membrane-capped roof.
“We don’t have to walk up steps over there,” said George Lyle.
In addition to a large dining area and kitchen, there will be a community room and an entertainment center.
“It’s going to be a lot nicer and there’ll be more room,”  said Margaret Boss.
John and Hirmaline Whitney, both 88, have been volunteers at the center for 14 years.
Since the couple helped with the move to Sixth and Church just over 12 years ago, they planned to assist with the relocation to 10th and Lyon.
“I’m excited,” Hirmaline Whitney said. “We’ve needed this for so long.”
“It’ll be nice for the older people,” added John Whitney, pointing to others in the room.
One remarkable aspect is that the renovation was financed through donations. About $1 million has been raised in 18 months, and administrator Debbie Catlett is confident about collecting the rest.
“A lot of people had a dream to make sure the center had a place for years to come,” Catlett said. “Dreams really do come true.”
The center serves about 500 meals each weekday, either on-site or by delivery. Everyone, regardless of age, is welcome. Fees are $4 for people ages 60 and older and $5 for others.
In addition to donations, the center gets funding from the federal, state, county and city governments, the United Way and contracts for meal services. Its annual budget is around $650,000.
“It’s sure a great project for the community,” Catlett said of the new center. “It’s another thing to bring people to Hannibal.”
For information, call Catlett at (573) 221-4488.