HURON — From its humble beginnings in the early 1970s, in a closed hatchery located on Second Street and Kansas Avenue SE, the Huron Area Senior Center has endured to be one of Huron’s lasting establishments. 

Members attending the rescheduled monthly Democratic Forum meeting heard from Megan Hogle, executive director of the center, who said they live their motto every day, “Enriching the lives of our aging community.“ The center is now housed in the former women’s dormitory of Huron University on Seventh Street Southwest.

The center serves home delivered meals every weekday with volunteer help to make the deliveries. Without this help, many recipients would be unable to live in their own homes. Daily meals are served at the center, too. A special Easter dinner was available and between the two programs more than 400 meals were provided. Meals can also be ordered to go. With the help of Beadle County Transit delivery, the Huron Center prepares the meals for the Wolsey Senior Center. Huron’s staff also provides guidance to the Highmore Senior Center so they can prepare their own. 

A new program has just been taken on by the center for food distribution for those of low income. Forms are available at the center to fill out, which include income guidelines that are not complicated. 

The Box Program provides 25 pounds of food per month to those in need. It can be picked up, or it can be delivered. Anyone age 60 plus with an income of 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines is eligible.

Hogle said she has helped many people set up cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. She is always available to share her knowledge with anyone who asks. 

Help can also be found for taxes and Medicare questions at the center.

The center is a fun place to visit with many scheduled daily activities such as Bingo, card games, and a jig-saw puzzle. On the first Wednesday of every month, morning coffee and rolls are set out for visiting. A few times a year, motorcoach tours are arranged, and members receive a discount on tickets.

The center operates a thrift store and sells many handcrafted items in the lobby. Thrift store donations are always appreciated.  
Everyone is welcome to visit the center and enjoy any of the planned activities and programs, however membership is encouraged. Membership dues are only $30 a year and includes a monthly newsletter with a calendar of activities and the menu.

Many people have worked throughout the years to provide this home away from home for senior members of Beadle County.

There is never a reason to feel stuck at home when the Huron Senior Center is open.