Arlington, VA, March 30, 2017 – Following the introduction of H.R. 1821, the DELIVER Act – Delivering Elderly Lunches and Increasing Volunteer Engagement and Reimbursements – which is legislation that would increase the charitable mileage deduction for the delivery of meals to the elderly, disabled, frail and at-risk individuals, Meals on Wheels America President and CEO Ellie Hollander released this statement:

I commend Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX) and Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) on reintroducing the DELIVER Act during a historic and celebratory month for senior nutrition programs. This important piece of bipartisan legislation supports our backbone: the dedicated volunteers who are delivering the vital nutrition, social connection and safety checks to America’s most vulnerable citizens. We are grateful that both Representatives recognize the invaluable role volunteers play in keeping seniors healthier and more independent at home, while avoiding more costly healthcare alternatives.

Meals on Wheels America urges Members of Congress to cosponsor this legislation that would help achieve fair and consistent treatment of volunteers under the tax code. We look forward to working in a bipartisan manner with both the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means and the leadership to pass this sensible reform, which further recognizes and supports incredible public-private partnerships like Meals on Wheels.  

Learn more about H.R. 1821, DELIVER Act here.

Read the statement on the companion bill in the Senate here.

Press Contact:
Jenny Bertolette
Meals on Wheels America
571-339-1603
jenny@mealsonwheelsamerica.org