Wheel Meals in Southeast Texas are tackling a massive lack of funds after federal cuts cut its budget more than half. The program has been bringing fresh food to seniors for decades, but now it relies on the community for support.
“Our funds have been cut by more than half this year, and more than half, but we still have to serve,” said Janic Kimball, president and CEO of Meals on Wheels. “We will be 100% liable for payments for those meals as we don’t seem to receive any more funds until the end of the September fiscal year.”
Wheel meals prepare 1,300-1,500 meals daily. In response to the loss of federal funds, the organization is launching new initiatives to engage the community, including a “Senior Recruitment” program.
“We are launching a senior that was hired today on May 1. It will make a difference and be an ongoing initiative.
The “Seniors recruited” initiative encourages community members to help provide food to seniors in need. Additionally, nutrition and services for seniors hosted a luncheon that “delivered the difference” to benefit the program.
“If the gift is too small, if you can’t give, if that’s not something you can do financially, come volunteer and come and see the seniors we serve, and you’ll see why it’s so important to give back to people who are paved for us,” Kimball said.
Diet emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in the program in promoting health and improving the quality of life for older people.
