RAPID CITY, S.D. – Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota is relocating its primary Rapid City kitchen to the Minneluzahan Senior Center, according to information from the organization.

The kitchen, which produces more than 1,000 meals daily, has operated since 1977 out of the River Ridge facility at 330 Philadelphia St. The site is part of the Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission and was originally built to serve residents and seniors in the surrounding area.

The new kitchen will be located at the Minneluzahan Senior Center at 315 N. 4th St., approximately 500 feet from the current location. The center has long served as a senior meal site and community hub.

Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota said it received notice in fall 2025 to vacate the River Ridge kitchen as the housing commission restructures its property and housing needs amid reductions in federal and state funding.

Renovations at the Minneluzahan Senior Center began in February 2026 and are expected to be completed before May 1, 2026. The organization said the move will require adapting to a smaller kitchen space, but it anticipates no impact to meal production or service capacity.

A temporary service interruption is expected April 23 through April 25 while major kitchen appliances are moved and serviced. During that time, additional meals will be provided to seniors.

The renovation project has an initial budget of $200,000 and includes updates for plumbing, electrical, sewage and outdoor storage, along with additional refrigerator and freezer capacity to support production of up to 5,000 meals per week.

The new location will also introduce ongoing costs, including $3,000 per month in rent and an additional $3,000 per month for utilities and upkeep, adding $72,000 annually to the program’s budget.

Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota said it has raised $30,000 toward renovation costs and is seeking additional sponsorships and donations to support the project. Donations can be made at https://www.mealsprogram.com/donate.

Minneluzahan Senior Center said the expanded partnership aligns with its mission to support the community and serve local seniors.