Meals on Wheels helps keep Sacramento County seniors in their homes and communities by providing nutritious meals, safety net services, social contact and community resources. The organization serves seniors aged 60 and better regardless of their income level.
“There’s a misconception that Meals on Wheels is income-based,” says Kevin McAllister, executive director. “Our services are available to all seniors who meet the age requirement and are homebound due to illness, disability or other causes that prevent them from leaving their home.”
The organization’s mission is to enhance the dignity and quality of life of Sacramento County older adults through nutritional programs and assessments of needs, supportive services, and assistance to families and caregivers.
“Beyond our meal service, we’re enabling seniors to engage with others and age in place,” says McAllister. “Many homebound, isolated seniors need our daily visit, which also allows us to do welfare checks and provide referrals to community resources if needed.”
Meals on Wheels currently has 23 vehicles and 243 volunteer drivers who cover about 2,600 miles a week delivering meals throughout Sacramento County. About 2,000 meals are served every day. Meals on Wheels also has an AniMeals service that provides pet food for homebound participants’ dogs and cats.
“Our goal is to serve older adults in the community by providing nutritious meals, safety net services, and more to help them sustain their independence and overall well-being.” Kevin McAllister, executive director
In addition to home-delivered meals, Meals on Wheels has 20 All Seasons Cafes located throughout Sacramento County, where seniors just have to be 60 or better to enjoy lunch and meet others. Cafe participants can choose to contribute $3 for lunch, but this is never required.
“We would like to serve more seniors and have more All Seasons Cafes,” says McAllister. “We’re also looking for ways to help at-risk or homeless seniors connect with much needed services. Individual donations can allow us to expand our services, so please help us support our community’s seniors.”