Stories

Mrs. Janie, Meals on Wheels Client, receiving meal from volunteer at door - Meals on Wheels senior independence

FEATURED STORY

Mrs. Janie

Mrs. Janie Tope-Dawes, a 93-year-old Texan, once a poet, model, and secretary, faced deep isolation and health challenges after losing her husband and suffering a stroke. Living alone with limited mobility, she turned to Meals on Wheels San Antonio for support. The nutritious meals and compassionate connections helped restore her strength, health, and sense of purpose. Today, Mrs. Janie finds joy not only in the meals but in the community of volunteers who’ve become like family, helping her feel seen, nourished, and truly cared for.

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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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Gundy
Client, Gundy, Knitting on Bed - the nation's oldest girl scout
Gundy

As the nation's oldest Girl Scout, Lenore "Gundy" Costello's legacy continues to inspire and empower young women worldwide. Their remarkable journey embodies resilience, leade...

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Embracing Adversity: The Resilient Life of Mr. Proudford
Thomas Proudford - Meals on Wheels and veteran support
Embracing Adversity: The Resilient Life of Mr. Proudford

The story of Thomas Proudford, an amputee and retired army veteran living in Fairbanks, Alaska, illustrates how life's adversities can be met with resilience and grace. Despit...

The McGilvarys
Frank McGilvary Smiling - Meals on Wheels support for aging couples
The McGilvarys

Frank’s life journey in Alaska and his enduring love with D.A., amidst personal tragedies, underscores their resilient community involvement and reliance on Meals on Wheels ...

The Kindness of Joe Young
Joe Young - kindness in action
The Kindness of Joe Young

Joe Young, a dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteer, embodies a quiet strength as he navigates his kitchen duties and client visits with purposeful dedication. With a background ...

A “Thank You” is Good Enough
Vernon - Meals on Wheels volunteer story
A “Thank You” is Good Enough

Vernon Shelton, a Dunn, North Carolina native, exemplifies southern hospitality and altruism through 45 years of dedicated service with Meals on Wheels, driven by a genuine de...

Finding A Slice of Heaven
Michael Snodgrass, senior veteran, sitting on bed
Finding A Slice of Heaven

In 1975, Michael joined the army as an audacious 18-year-old. He’s completed two tours of infantry duty, received a gold star as a standout army recruiter, braved the winte...

Ella Stewart and the Elegy of Her Kinfolk
Ella Stewart - senior storytelling and connection
Ella Stewart and the Elegy of Her Kinfolk

On the surface, there’s nothing extraordinary about knocking on a door until you meet a Meals on Wheels volunteer. Then, you see a knock for what it is: a conduit to buildin...

The [Sign] Language of Kindness
Volunteer, Debbie, and deaf client, Dennis showing I Love You in Sign Language
The [Sign] Language of Kindness

Debbie is an inspiring Meals on Wheels volunteer with a very special story. When Dennis, a client who is deaf, lost the ability to read lips during the pandemic, Debbie leaped...

Puppy Love: The Power of Pet Companionship
Judy and Brenda with pets Hazel and Brownie - senior pet support programs
Puppy Love: The Power of Pet Companionship

Two seniors native to Knoxville, Tennessee — Judy and Brenda — couldn’t imagine life without their respective pets, Hazel and Brownie, who provide companionship and, of ...

Below the Georgia Pines: The Story of Frank and Blade
Meals on Wheels Client, Frank, and his dog, Blade - senior and pet companionship
Below the Georgia Pines: The Story of Frank and Blade

Frank has been granted the gift of sharing the last 12 or so years with his favorite furry companion, Blade — who keeps Frank healthier, happier and more independent just by...

Discover the Power of a Knock: Wilbert
Wilbert - Client Blue Blazer Eye Contact Neutral Sitting on Couch - senior nutrition assistance
Discover the Power of a Knock: Wilbert

Too many of our aging neighbors experience hunger and isolation, wishing a helping hand would knock on their door, and they’d see a friendly face. That’s why Meals on Whee...

Discover the Power of a Knock: Ruth
Ruth, Client in Colorful Blouse Smiling in Kitchen - What a Knock on the Door Means to Ruth
Discover the Power of a Knock: Ruth

Too many of our aging neighbors experience hunger and isolation, wishing a helping hand would knock on their door. That’s why Meals on Wheels volunteers show up at the doors...

Still Dancing at 89 Years Young!
Evelyn, Meals on Wheels Client - active seniors staying engaged
Still Dancing at 89 Years Young!

Local providers are struggling to keep up with rising costs and increased demand, and an innovative partnership between Meals on Wheels America and Food Lion Feeds aims to eas...