Meals on Wheels America

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Our Work

Since its first delivery in 1954, Meals on Wheels has been driven by one simple goal: to improve the health and well-being of our senior neighbors. What began as a compassionate idea has grown into one of America’s largest and most impactful social movements. With a focus on nutrition and social connection, we’re committed to ensuring that every senior who needs Meals on Wheels has access to it.

Male Client Plaid Shirt Eating Oatmeal in Kitchen Neutral - Meals on Wheels work in nutrition

Nutrition

With millions of seniors at greater risk of hunger and malnutrition, Meals on Wheels providers deliver nutritionally balanced, age-appropriate meals designed to meet seniors’ needs. The meals are often the primary source of nutrition a Meals on Wheels client will receive.

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Black Female Volunteer Hugging Happily Black Female Client with Meal Delivery at Door

Social Connection

With more seniors living alone and feeling isolated and lonely, Meals on Wheels providers play a crucial role by offering services that help seniors build meaningful connections. These include regular phone calls, friendly visits, opportunities to socialize with peers and even pet assistance. For many, a Meals on Wheels volunteer is often the only person they interact with in a day — and sometimes the only human connection they’ll have all week.

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White Female Happily Knitting - Meals on Wheels Work Addressing Social Isolation

Health and Well-Being

When Meals on Wheels staff and volunteers visit, they act as the eyes and ears in a senior’s home, looking for any changes to their physical or mental health. This important role allows Meals on Wheels providers to quickly identify potential risks and address them before they become serious health issues.

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Capital Hill Building - Meals on Wheels Work in Advoacy

Advocacy

As the national voice for Meals on Wheels providers across the country and the older adults they serve, Meals on Wheels America is committed to advocating for funding and policies that help older Americans to live more nourished and connected lives with independence and dignity.

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Portrait of an elderly woman in the bedroom

Research

Our research is a key part of our strategy. It helps guide the work we do, strengthens the field of senior nutrition providers and supports decision-makers with important information to make smart, well-informed choices. By understanding the needs of local providers and the seniors they serve, our research also allows us to better support the Meals on Wheels network.

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America's Seniors Need You

Your gift will help make our work possible today and for years to come.

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