Tri-City Friendship Center

About Tri-City Friendship Center

Forty-two years ago Mary Forcade had a vision - a senior citizens center that would serve the communities of Graham, Maitland, and Skidmore. Joined by other visionaries such as Betty Nelson, Clarice Damewood, Marie Lyle, Harriet Burchett, Kenny Westeon, C.E. Linville, Jr. and many other community members this vision became a reality. On November 24, 1975, the first meals were served from the American Legion Building in Maitland. Meals were offered three days a week in a congregate setting in Maitland and home delivered meals to those 60 years and older in Graham, Maitland, and Skidmore. The food was cooked at the Maitland Cafe. Later the Nutrition Site moved across the street to the McIntyre Building and meals were served five days a week. At that time the food was cooked in Mound City and transported to Maitland. On May 10, 1978, a group of senior citizens from Graham, Maitland, and Skidmore met for the purpose of incorporation. The official name selected was "Tri-City Senior Council of Holt County Nutrition Site 11A." On August 12, 1978, the officers of the corporation met with Mr. and Mrs. Campbell Collins for the purpose of purchasing the Bohart Building. After this transaction was completed, the north section of the building was leased to Betty Massengale for a restaurant. The south side housed the Nutrition Site. Because of the tireless dedication of community members and voluneers, the Nutrition Site is still thriving today! Over 16,000 meals were served last year alone.