Pacific Grove, Calif. – June 25, 2026 – As the fiscal year comes to a close, Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP) is celebrating more than numbers, it is celebrating the extraordinary power of the partnerships that help its impact reach across Monterey County, touching thousands of lives every day.
Over the past year, MOWMP has continued to meet the growing needs of older adults and those facing food insecurity throughout the community thanks to the unwavering support of its donors, volunteers, corporate partners, foundations, community organizations, local governments, and compassionate individuals who believe that no one should face hunger or isolation alone.
“Partnership powers everything we do,” says Christine Winge, MOWMP’s President & CEO. “This year has been a compelling reminder that when community comes together with a shared purpose, we can change lives for the better.”
Throughout the fiscal year, MOWMP expanded its reach and strengthened its impact through meaningful collaborations. From meal delivery and nutrition services to wellness checks, community engagement, and future-focused initiatives, partnerships have fueled innovation and sustainability at every level. Highlights from the year include:
- Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD)
MOWMP partnered with MPUSD to provide freshly prepared meals to families experiencing food insecurity while creating meaningful workforce development opportunities for students. Through this collaboration, students gain hands-on experience in food service, on-the-job training, and civic responsibility.
- Housing Authority of the County of Monterey
Through coordinated outreach and support services, this partnership helps ensure vulnerable seniors and residents in affordable housing communities have access to nutritious meals and wellness checks that allow them to remain independent.
- Sun Street Centers
This partnership expands MOWMP’s community impact by connecting nutrition services with broader health and wellness resources. Together, the organizations help address social determinants of health and support individuals working toward stability and self-sufficiency.
- Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust (MBFT)
This partnership connects local fishermen, sustainable seafood, and community nutrition. Through the annual Get Hooked dinner and MBFT’s Community Seafood Program, the organizations help provide responsibly harvested Monterey Bay seafood to local residents facing food insecurity while supporting the region’s fishing economy and promoting sustainable local food systems.
- Local Agriculture Partners
MOWMP continues to collaborate with local farms and food producers to source fresh, regional ingredients. This partnership strengthens the local economy while improving the quality and overall nutrition of meals served.
MOWMP also recognized the increasing importance of collective action in addressing food insecurity and senior isolation, challenges that no single organization can solve alone.
“Our partners are truly an extension of our mission,” Winge continues. “Whether someone gives their time, resources, expertise, or advocacy, every contribution helps strengthen the safety net for nutrition in our community.”
Looking ahead, MOWMP remains committed to building lasting partnerships that create healthier, more connected communities for generations to come.
For more information about how to become a partner and to learn about volunteer opportunities and other ways to support, please contact MOWMP at 831-375-4454 or visit mowmp.org.
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