In 2018, during happier times, senior citizens gathered at the Clay County Senior Citizens Center in Brazil to enjoy entertainment. Now, economic realities may close the center. (Frank Phillips photo)

By Frank Phillips / DLC Media News

BRAZIL – The Clay County Senior Citizens Center is in danger of closing its doors even though it is offering more activities than in recent years and may soon offer meals through THRIVE West Central. 

Board President Jeff Thompson spoke to the Clay County Council on Monday, asking them to increase their donation to the Senior Center. 

The Center’s financial problems came to a head when United Way withdrew its $20,000 a year donation. 

Council President Larry Moss also serves on the board of THRIVE West Central and said one reason people stopped attending meals at the Center was the quality of the food. 

While it did meet nutritional guidelines, “It was not very tasty,” Moss said. 

Bob DeCamp, an employee of the Senior Center, said the county used to give $8,600 a year. Now the Center receives $4,000 from the county. 

Larry Moss said he thinks the county needs to increase its donations to the Senior Center. 

The money will have to come out of the County Commissioners’ budget during the budget talks and be approved by the County Council, Moss said.