Pacific Grove, Calif. – September 10, 2021 – Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP) announced its partnership with the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust (MBFT) – an organization working to advance the social, economic and environmental sustainability of local fisheries – to support homebound seniors and disabled adults across the Monterey Peninsula.
MBFT partners with the fishing industry, local government, and conservation organizations to achieve a balance between a healthy ocean ecosystem and seafood economy. The organization increases access to local, sustainably-caught seafood while preserving an integral part of the heritage and biodiversity of Monterey Bay.
Many businesses experienced negative impacts in the wake of COVID-19 and the local fishing industry was no different. Grants were made available to support the fisheries, allowing MBFT to purchase and donate product to local nonprofits. MBFT has donated over 2,000 pounds of filleted black cod to MOWMP to date, serving as the main source of protein in nearly 10,000 meals served across the Peninsula.
The introduction of fresh, wild-caught fish into MOWMP’s daily menu was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the almost 1,000 clients MOWMP serves. As a result of the partnership and community response, the agency is now purchasing seafood directly from local fisheries – who are among some of the most sustainably-managed in the world – for all its seafood needs.
“We’re dedicated to strengthening our community and are tremendously grateful for the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust and all of the local fisherman who help us provide locally-sourced nutrition for our clients,” says MOWMP’s Executive Director, Christine Winge. “This is an excellent example of creative collaboration. When it comes to working towards the common goal of addressing hunger, we are stronger together.”
Volunteer drivers continue to deliver freshly prepared meals and socialization to homebound seniors and disabled adults across the Monterey Peninsula.
MOWMP does not charge its clients for meals. If you would like to support this partnership, please refer to the agency’s Healthy Nutrition Sponsorship campaign running now.
Click here to learn more and donate to Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula.
