The Mexico City Council approved measures intended to assist the Mexico Senior Nutrition Center and The Help Center during Monday’s regular meeting. The votes release funds to both programs to help offset operating costs.

Since 2017, the city has provided $14,000 a year to the nutrition center. The amount is included in the city’s annual budget and helps cover the cost of activities and services. As a not-for-profit organization, the center depends upon donations from the private and public sector. The center serves meals and delivers to homebound seniors, as well as offering educational programs and recreational events for county residents 60 and older, along with their families.

The city’s annual contribution began in 2000. Mexico contributed $10,000 a year until increasing that amount three years ago.

The Laura Miller George Help Center operates a thrift store and food pantry, among other services to the community, drawing on donations from the United Way of Audrain County and other organizations. The city’s contribution goes toward operating costs.

Eight years ago, responding to urgent needs, the city boosted its support for the center to $10,000. In 2017 the amount was returned to $5,000.

Monday’s vote authorizes city manager Bruce Slagle to release the monies to both organizations.