Today marks an important milestone for seniors across Skagit County.

As of July 1, 2026, the Skagit Council on Aging (SCOA) has officially assumed responsibility for the county’s Senior Nutrition Program, ensuring that congregate meals and Meals on Wheels continue for thousands of older adults who depend on these vital services.

For many seniors, these programs are about far more than food. A nutritious meal is often paired with conversation, friendship, a wellness check, and a sense of belonging. Whether gathering around the table at the Anacortes Senior Activity Center or receiving a meal delivered to their doorstep, these services help older adults remain healthy, independent, and connected to their community.

When uncertainty arose about the future of senior nutrition in Skagit County, our community responded in an extraordinary way.

The Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation made senior nutrition the focus of this year’s 7th Annual Unconventional Runway Show, sharing the urgent need to preserve meal services in Anacortes while supporting SCOA as it prepared to take on this monumental responsibility.

The response exceeded every expectation.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, designers, celebrity models, auction supporters, and guests, the gala became the most successful in Foundation history. Together, our community raised a record-breaking amount to help protect one of the most essential services available to older adults.

Every sponsorship, auction bid, Raise the Paddle gift, and donation demonstrated something powerful: our community believes that no senior should have to worry about where their next meal will come from or face aging alone.

To everyone who gave, attended, volunteered, or championed our mission, thank you. You have already made a meaningful difference in the lives of local seniors.

Our commitment doesn’t end here.

While July 1 marks the beginning of SCOA’s leadership of the Senior Nutrition Program, it also marks the beginning of a new partnership.

The Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation remains committed to supporting senior nutrition in our community for years to come. Funds raised through the Unconventional Runway Show will help strengthen local nutrition services while providing critical support as SCOA establishes and grows this countywide program.

The need, however, does not end with one successful event.

As the demand for senior nutrition continues to grow, philanthropy will play an increasingly important role in ensuring these services remain available for every older adult who needs them. Government funding alone cannot meet the growing demand. Community investment will continue to bridge the gap, helping provide nutritious meals, welcoming congregate dining experiences, and reliable Meals on Wheels deliveries throughout Anacortes.

This transition represents an exciting new chapter, one built on collaboration, compassion, and the generosity of people who believe every senior deserves to age with dignity.

The Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation is proud to stand alongside the Skagit Council on Aging as a local partner and advocate for senior nutrition. Together, we will continue raising awareness, building community support, and investing in the programs that keep older adults healthy, connected, and thriving.

As we celebrate this important milestone, we also invite our community to remain part of the journey. Whether you choose to make a gift, attend a future fundraising event, volunteer your time, or help spread awareness, your support makes a lasting impact.

Together, we have protected an essential program. Together, we will ensure it continues to serve our neighbors for generations to come.

Thank you for believing in our seniors, in our community, and in the power of coming together to make a difference.