During the March for Meals campaign, Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to seniors in need each day.
Throughout March, restaurants and grocery stores partner with the organization to gather donations.
The goal of the organization is to “improve the health and quality of life for our homebound seniors while fostering independence and ensuring no one is left hungry or isolated,” according to its website.
This organization serves Utah, Summit and Wasatch counties, providing balanced meals to seniors who may not otherwise have access.
Hank Savage was a recipient of Meals on Wheels when he had his knee replaced.
“It was a lifesaver because I could hardly get around after having that knee replaced. I couldn’t do any cooking, and having the Meals on Wheels, usually it was enough to give me two meals,” Savage said.
According to Meals on Wheels, 60% of its recipients live alone, and one of its main goals is to fight isolation.
Savage said the volunteers cared about him and worked to accommodate his schedule.
“They became friends, you know,” Savage said.
According to volunteers for Meals on Wheels, the goal of the March for Meals campaign is to generate donations and expand outreach to support the program.
This year, an anonymous donor is matching every donation made in March up to $100,000.
As part of the March for Meals campaign, elected officials across the three counties ride along with volunteers to deliver meals.
In Lindon, Mayor Carolyn Lundberg delivered meals alongside City Councilmember Steve Stewart.
“We have so much fun. Councilmember Stewart and I go each year with the Meals on Wheels visits and we have had many beautiful experiences seeing some of these people in all walks of life,” Lundberg said.
Stewart delivered a meal to one of his previous professors at Brigham Young University.
“It was just a great time to be able to see him and remember him as a great teacher and his influence on me. And then to be able to serve him somewhat today,” Stewart said.
Mayor Lundberg said they hope to secure enough funding to help get seniors off the waitlist, noting that Utah County currently has the longest waitlist in the area.
Meals on Wheels said it is always looking for more volunteers, with a particular need in southern Utah County. To volunteer or find more information, visit its website.