Magdalena Senior Center discusses funding needs, transportation options at public meeting

Local leaders, state officials and senior center staff gathered March 16 to review funding challenges, transportation services and upcoming capital needs for the Magdalena Senior Center, which operates under the Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging (AAA).

Ray Martinez, Socorro County chair of the Non-Metro NM AAA, opened the meeting by recognizing newly approved advisory council members and thanking community partners for their support.

 “We’re very fortunate, as you can see from this facility,” he said, noting recent donations ranging from a new television to outdoor equipment.

State Rep. Gail Armstrong of Magdalena emphasized her commitment to securing resources for senior services throughout her district.

“When Ray calls, I answer,” Armstrong said. “Some of the senior centers are the hardest things to me in the state, because they’re all treated very differently… but we are there for you all.”

Armstrong said she allocated capital outlay funds to Magdalena this year and is willing to redirect additional junior money if needed. She encouraged the village to coordinate with her office on future requests.

Danny Osworth, director of Non-Metro AAA, outlined statewide budget strains affecting senior centers. Rising food and fuel costs have pushed many centers over budget.

“Usually we’re at 45% of programs overspent. This year we’re 87% overspent,” Osworth said. “We projected in November that we were going to have a $1.2 million shortfall.”

The Aging and Long-Term Services Department pulled funds from multiple programs to cover the deficit, and centers are expected to receive supplemental funding by early April. However, Osworth said next year’s budget remains essentially flat despite increased need.

“I’m already $1.2 million in the hole,” he said. “How are we going to get funding to keep covering so I don’t have to do this by next March or April?”

He encouraged local governments to contribute where possible. Socorro County has provided $10,000 to $15,000 annually in recent years, said Martinez.

The center’s annual operating budget is $241,729, according to village staff.

A major topic of discussion was transportation for seniors needing rides to medical appointments. Osworth explained that the state-funded Volunteer Driver Program can pick up residents at home, wait during appointments and return them at no cost.

“We’ll come to your house, knock on your door, assist you to the vehicle, and then we’ll go off to your appointment,” he said.

 Drivers are reimbursed at 70 cents per mile, and the program is seeking additional volunteers.

Residents were encouraged to give at least a week’s notice when possible, though two days is acceptable.

Martinez reviewed recent donations and facility needs, including parking lot repairs, lighting improvements and securing barn-style doors. The center also continues to rely on voluntary donations from meal participants and community members.

The center currently delivers about 30 home‑delivered meals daily and serves 137 meals monthly, Martinez said. Activities include casino trips, movies and other outings.

Officials plan to meet again next month to prepare capital outlay requests ahead of the next legislative session. Armstrong encouraged the village to be ready for deadlines and to coordinate closely with her office.

“Anything you all need from me… I will do my part as much as I possibly can to give you guys everything you need,” she said.