Pacific Grove, Calif. – May 5, 2026 – Today, Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP) announced that Christine Winge, its President & CEO, and board chair of Meals on Wheels of California (MOWCA), traveled to Sacramento in advance of the May budget revisions to join state leaders in advocating for stronger support, sustainable funding, and expanded resources for Meals on Wheels programs across California.
During meetings with state legislators and policy leaders, Winge highlighted the growing demand for home delivered meals, the increasing pressures facing nutrition programs, and the essential role Meals on Wheels plays in supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable residents who rely on daily nutrition, wellness checks, and other services to remain healthy and safe at home.
“At a time when the need for meals is rising dramatically, it is critical that we ensure these programs are adequately supported at the state level,” says Winge. “Meals on Wheels is more than a food program, it is a lifeline that supports health, independence, and dignity for thousands of Californians every day.”
The advocacy trip is part of a broader statewide effort to elevate the visibility of nutrition security and aging services within California’s policy agenda, specifically a proposed $37-million investment in nutrition services to address food insecurity, support health stability, and reduce institutional care. Leaders emphasized that Meals on Wheels programs not only reduce hunger, but also help prevent costly hospitalizations, reduce isolation, and strengthen the continuum of care for an aging population.
MOWMP’s participation underscores its leadership role within the regional and statewide network of nutrition providers. As demand continues to grow in Monterey County and beyond, the organization is committed to ensuring that the voices of clients and providers are heard at every level of decision-making.
“Local programs are doing everything they can to meet the rising need, but we can’t do it without state government support,” Winge adds. “Sustained investment and policy support are essential if we are going to meet the growing demand in the years ahead.”
The Sacramento visit reflects MOWMP’s ongoing commitment not only to delivering meals locally, but also to advancing the broader systems that make that work possible. Along with MOWCA, the organization’s leadership reinforces a deep commitment to ensuring that every older adult has access to the nutrition and support they need to thrive at home.
