Strategic Plan

Meals on Wheels serves more than 2 million seniors every year, but many more are still waiting for help. We have a plan to End the Wait® and ensure that every senior who needs Meals on Wheels gets it.

14M seniors worry about having enough food

1% of philanthropic donations go to aging causes

1 in 3 local Meals on Wheels providers has a waitlist

White Male Volunteer with Black Male Client Bonding on Porch with Meal Delivery Bag Branded (1)

Our Bold Goal to End the Wait

For more than 50 years, Meals on Wheels has remained the most effective solution to address senior hunger and isolation. Now, working with our network, Meals on Wheels America has a bigger, bolder plan to serve more seniors — and serve them better — by:

  • Scaling our PROGRAMMING to build local capacity and drive locally led solutions.
  • Building and growing PARTNERSHIPS to start, expand and scale services for communities with the greatest need.
  • Leveraging our INFLUENCE to raise awareness and drive change across systems, practices and policies.
    Read Our Full Plan
    End the Wait™: A Three-Part Series on Meals on Wheels Waitlists
    Empty Plate with Meals on Wheels America and End the Wait Logo
    End the Wait™: A Three-Part Series on Meals on Wheels Waitlists

    Every day, tens of thousands of older adults are told they must wait for Meals on Wheels. This three-part series shares powerful stories that reveal the human cost of waitlist...

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    Joel’s Story of Health, Hope and Perseverance
    Meals on Wheels Client, Joel Roy, at home sitting in chair - senior independence support
    Joel’s Story of Health, Hope and Perseverance

    Joel Roy, a retired high school teacher, faces mobility issues and health challenges but wants to maintain their independence. Meals on Wheels has been essential in helping hi...

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    People are People with Sonya Mitchell
    Portrait of Sonya Mitchell
    People are People with Sonya Mitchell

    In Birmingham, Alabama, Meals on Wheels volunteer Sonya Mitchell delivers more than food — she brings connection, compassion, and hope. From serving her hometown of Titusvil...

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    Help Us End the Wait

    Your support can help End the Wait and provide life-changing services to seniors in your community. Together, we can ensure every senior has access to nutrition and meaningful connections.

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