Meals on Wheels operates in virtually every community in America through our network of more than 5,000 independently-run local programs. While the diversity of each program's services and operations may vary based on the needs and resources of their communities, they are all committed to supporting their senior neighbors to live healthier and more nourished lives in their own homes.[i]
It would help to know if Meals on Wheels is offered in your community. You can contact our main office by calling 479.636.7301 to see if you qualify.
Meals on Wheels focuses on caring for individuals whose diminished mobility makes it hard to shop for food, prepare meals or socialize with others. Generally, programs serve adults 60 and over, although age requirements can vary by program and areas served. People who are mobile enough to join others for meals in a group setting where seniors congregate, like senior centers and cafes, are encouraged to do so; while others less mobile may qualify for home delivery.[ii]
The exact eligibility requirements may vary by county or program, but in general they will include such conditions as follows.
The applicant must be home-bound.
The person must not be able to take care of themselves, which usually means the individual applying for Meals on Wheels needs to be at least 60 years of age or older, disabled, or in serious medical condition.
Most agencies will provide meals to the spouse or partner of a person at least 60 years of age for a donation.
The person who needs food must be unable to attend a local Senior Center or food pantry because of emotional or physical disabilities.
Applicants must be elderly, physically or emotionally unable to obtain food, disabled, or otherwise can’t prepare full meals on their own.
A priority for delivery is the home-bound, and they need to lack a car or transportation to a local grocery store.
While not always required, and again this depends on the local service, many Meals on Wheels program may ask for a very small monetary donation for each meal delivered. All donations will always go directly back into the program to help provide meals and food to others. So, the contribution will offset operating costs. Some programs just could use a donation, but it may not be required.[iii]
Signing up for meal is easy! If you live in Benton, Carroll, or Madison counties contact us!
[i] Meals on Wheels Editorial Team, accessed 12 August 2019, <https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals>
[ii] Meals on Wheels Editorial Team, accessed 12 August 2019, <https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals>
[iii] Need Help Paying Bills Editorial Team, accessed 12 August 2019, < https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/meals_on_wheels.html>