Pacific Grove, Calif. – March 21, 2023 – Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP) announced today it will be participating in the 21st annual March for Meals – a nationwide celebration of Meals on Wheels programs in support of the homebound who rely on this essential service to remain healthy and independent at home, now even more so, amid lingering effects of the pandemic and high inflation.
The annual March for Meals campaign commemorates the historic day in March 1972 when President Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act and established a national nutrition program for seniors 60 years and older. This March, Meals on Wheels programs across the country are joining forces to celebrate more than 50 years of success and garner the support needed to ensure critical programs addressing food insecurity, social isolation, independence, and health can continue for years to come.
During the month, community-based Meals on Wheels programs from across the country will join forces for the annual awareness campaign to celebrate this successful public-private partnership and garner the resources needed to reach every senior in need of a nutritious meal, friendly visit, and safety check.
Locally, MOWMP has appealed to elected officials and other prominent figures to speak out and raise awareness for the power of its programs serving homebound seniors, disabled adults, veterans, and other underserved populations.
“In the past few years, we have experienced a 106% increase in the demand for our services,” says Christine Winge, executive director at MOWMP. Winge continues, “We look forward to expanding the programs that have helped so many get through this unprecedented time, and we can’t do it alone. There’s still much we can do to ensure everyone facing food insecurity and isolation is well-nourished and more connected to our community. It takes all of us, working together, to keep our wheels turning.”
