Metro won’t contract out social services

Despite a 2004 audit that called for Metro Social Services to outsource its nutrition and homemaker services, the public agency announced Monday that it will continue to provide both services directly. The Metro Social Services Board of Commissioners made the decision after it determined that contracting out the two programs would not produce significant savings, according to an agency news release. A pilot private service provider project also revealed that clients were satisfied with Metro's programs. Through its homemaker program, the agency provides household and personal care help to 450 elderly, mentally and physically challenged adults. The agency's nutrition program provides a midday meal for 1,400 senior citizens at community centers and individual homes daily. Board Chairwoman Gwen Harris said disruption of the programs would be a disservice to the elderly in Nashville. — JANELL ROSSjross1@tennessean.com