Meals on wheels how do you qualify

These sources vary by community and include client payments, contributions from private donors, foundations and state and local governments. Current funding levels, however, are inadequate and waiting lists are building in every state across America.

Therefore, the need to protect existing funding and create new funding streams is imperative. Meals on Wheels America is the national membership organization that represents the 5, local community-based programs across the country dedicated to improving the lives of their senior neighbors. At the national level, we create opportunities, generate research that improves performance and act as the national voice that empowers and strengthens local communities.

We serve more than 2. These are our loved-ones, parents, grandparents, veterans and neighbors. They are primarily older than 60 and, because of physical limitations or financial difficulties, struggle to shop for or prepare meals for themselves. From rural communities to urban centers across the country, hardly any senior is beyond our reach. Seniors threatened with hunger and social isolation make up the core of Meals on Wheels clients. Specific qualifications vary by community, however, services typically require physical or financial challenges to their ability to eat healthy meals and move freely about their communities.

In many areas, there are not enough local resources to meet the need, leading to the creation of waiting lists full of people who need the service but are not yet recipients. Learn more about Meals on Wheels America. Check your inbox soon for updates and vital information concerning America's seniors, and show your support by donating today! Meals on Wheels operates in virtually every community in America through our network of more than 5, independently-run local programs. While the diversity of each program's services and operations may vary based on the needs and resources of their communities, they are all committed to supporting their senior neighbors to live healthier and more nourished lives in their own homes.

Use the search below to find the program closest to you or a loved one and give them a call. They can help guide you and get you started. Adequate nutrition is necessary for health, functionality and the ability to remain independent. Healthy eating can increase mental acuity, resistance to illness and disease, energy levels, immune system strength, recuperation speed and the ability to manage chronic health problems.

We accept referrals online and over the phone at After we obtain basic information over the phone, we assign a caseworker to each person. The in demographics comes with a profound impact on social services that serve seniors. Many of these people will qualify for Meals on Wheels.

Meals on Wheels is a program that delivers hot, nutritious meals to individuals — often home-bound individuals — who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals at home. The rest is made up through a variety of sources including the United Way, local governments, and donations. The meals are prepared in a variety of locations. The program specifics differ depending on the locale. There is no identical program. Related: How much do Meals on Wheels cost? Drivers, some volunteers and others paid, deliver the hot meals directly to the homes of qualified individuals.