ARLINGTON, VA – March 16, 2020 – Meals on Wheels America, the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior isolation and hunger, has announced the establishment of the Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund to meet the increased demand for services. Donated funds will replenish food and supplies, subsidize additional transportation and personnel costs, enable tech-based efforts to check in on isolated seniors, facilitate supply chain logistics with national vendors to help the hardest-hit communities and support timely distribution of science-based information needed to ensure safe care for all.
Like many illnesses, older adults face higher risks of contracting COVID-19 and/or experiencing complications, particularly if they also have chronic medical conditions. With the 65+ population being urged to remain at home, we are experiencing a new wave of homebound seniors who may not know from where their next meal will come. Local Meals on Wheels programs are uniquely positioned to reach these at-risk individuals and are working tirelessly to adapt to the rapidly evolving situation, deliver meals safely and respond to the increasing demand for services.
“Ensuring the health and safety of our nation’s seniors remains our top priority,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO, Meals on Wheels America. “It will take all of us doing our part to ensure no senior is forgotten during this unprecedented time, and I commend everyone who has stepped up thus far.”
The Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund was established with a $500,000 donation from Major League Baseball (MLB) and the MLB Players Association and a $250,000 donation from AARP. Funds will be distributed to Members of Meals on Wheels America through a need-based grant program.
To learn more, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/covid19. To support your community directly, you can use the local program locator at www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/findmeals.
ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS AMERICA
Meals on Wheels America is the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior isolation and hunger. This network serves virtually every community in America and, along with more than two million staff and volunteers, delivers the nutritious meals, friendly visits and safety checks that enable America’s seniors to live nourished lives with independence and dignity. By providing funding, leadership, education, research and advocacy support, Meals on Wheels America empowers its local member programs to strengthen their communities, one senior at a time. For more information, or to find a Meals on Wheels provider near you, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org.
PRESS CONTACT: Jenny Young, press@mealsonwheelsamerica.org