Founded in 1975, JABA is Central Virginia’s leading provider of information and services for seniors

Our Mission is to add dignity, security, independence and fulfillment to the lives of older adults and their families.

My Home For Life™

Helping Your Loved Ones Age in Place

JABA Senior Centers

If you or your spouse are 60 years of age or more , are living in Charlottesville or one of its surrounding counties, and wish to be a part of a safe, welcoming, resourceful environment, our Senior Centers are here for you! Senior Center activities and all volunteer opportunities are for all ages, everyone is welcome. Senior Center Nutrition services are for those 60 years of age or more.

Established by JABA in 1976, JABA's Senior Centers are unique because they focus on older adults in their totality, recognizing their diverse needs and lifelong interests, experience and skills. Clients are embraced by our staff, volunteers, and other clients, and are encouraged to learn new skills and make new friends. Our centers are also full-service noontime meal sites. Contributions for meals are encouraged, but not required. JABA senior centers provide a wide range of useful opportunities for seniors including:

• health & nutrition education
• catered meals
• card & board games
• field trips
• shopping trips
• discussion groups
• intergenerational events
• support groups
• social events
• exercise
• hobby groups
• referral services
• music & much more!

You can find out more information about our Senior Centers by going to the Senior Center Locations page. The page includes information about attending JABA's Senior Centers in Charlottesville, Esmont, Keswick, Scottsville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson.

Congregate Meals

A nutritious meal eaten in the company of others can improve appetite, enhance health and assist an older adult to lead an independent, meaningful and dignified life. Although caloric needs decline as adults grow older, there is a continued need for a diet high in nutrient content to maintain and/or improve health status.

Congregate meals (meals served in a group setting) are provided throughout Thomas Jefferson Planning by JABA with funding from the Older Americans Act, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. These federal and state revenues are supplemented by local support and participant contributions. Individual participants may use cash or checks as their contribution.

The meals must meet 1/3 of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Meals are prepared, served and transported according to safe food handling procedures. In addition to meals, service providers also arrange health and wellness programs, nutrition education, and recreational programs at the individual sites.

Individuals who are 60 years of age or older and their spouses of any age may participate in the congregate meal program. The target populations include persons who are isolated, physically or mentally impaired, members of minority groups, and low-income elderly (defined at 100% - 150% of poverty).

While there is no charge for the meals, participants are encouraged to contribute toward their meals in a voluntary, confidential manner. Meal Programs suggest a per meal contribution, which varies from county to county.

Each meal usually includes the following components:

2-3 ounces of protein
1-2 servings of vegetable or fruit
1 slice of bread
1 cup of milk
½ cup of dessert

Meals are planned to meet the dietary guidelines of reduced sodium, fat and sugar, and increased fiber.

Information is also available on Home Delivered Meals (click here).

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