In Muskegon County, Michigan, a vital senior support organization has made headlines by serving thousands of holiday meals as it grapples with an extensive waitlist for its services. Meals on Wheels, operated by AgeWell Services, currently has over 480 seniors on a waitlist for its weekly meal delivery, a reflection of the growing needs within the aging Baby Boomer population.
During the annual holiday meal event, Kris VanderStelt, executive director of AgeWell Services, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “Today, 3,900 meals will go out of our door to lift spirits and make people merry and bright.” Sponsored by the DTE Energy Foundation and other contributors, this year’s event underscored the organization’s commitment to addressing the needs of senior citizens in Muskegon, Ottawa, and Oceana counties.
On a daily basis, Meals on Wheels delivers approximately 1,400 meals to individuals aged 60 and older. This extensive operation is made possible by the dedication of more than 200 volunteers who ensure meals reach homebound clients across 43 different routes, with distributions occurring on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Some meals are specially tailored to meet the nutritional requirements of individual clients.
Astonishingly, surveys reveal that about 60% of Meals on Wheels participants identify these meal deliveries as their sole source of human interaction each day. This highlights the program’s role as not only a food service but also a critical safety check for seniors, particularly those suffering from conditions such as dementia. VanderStelt noted, “Studies show for Meals on Wheels America that if we’re there and we set it down in front of them, they’re going to eat it.”
Beyond meal delivery, AgeWell Services offers meals at community and senior living centers, providing opportunities for social interaction that are essential for combating loneliness and isolation among seniors. VanderStelt emphasized, “We know that social isolation leads to depression and loneliness,” advocating for initiatives that foster community connections for older adults.
Recent funding of $75,000 awarded by Muskegon County aims to address the county’s waitlist concerns. Additionally, support from Norton Shores and White Lake is helping the organization expand its reach. Operating with a substantial annual budget of $2.5 million, of which $1 million is designated for food costs, Meals on Wheels sustains itself through federal and state funds, grants, donations, and client contributions.
Services are designed with equity in mind; seniors with low income may qualify for assistance, while others pay around $8 per meal. VanderStelt pointed out the importance of accessibility, stating, “It’s really about creating that access to all people and trying to find what works for who.”
To further support the most isolated members of rural communities, AgeWell Services is actively seeking donations and community involvement. VanderStelt encouraged individuals to engage with their neighbors, particularly those who may be shut-in. Simple gestures, such as checking in on a neighbor or assisting with errands, can have a significant impact.
On December 17, the organization hosted a special holiday gathering where more than 50 volunteers served a gourmet meal to senior participants. The menu included brie-stuffed chicken, roasted potatoes, vegetables, and peanut butter cheesecake. For those receiving meals at home, an extra frozen breakfast was provided for Christmas morning.
Among the attendees was Linda Strait, a 79-year-old who began as a participant but later became a dedicated volunteer. “Some of the people stay in their rooms 24/7; they don’t come out. This is a way of them getting out and communicating with people and maybe having a little better quality of life,” Strait reflected, showcasing the community spirit and support fostered by AgeWell Services and its valued volunteers.
This holiday season, the combined efforts of volunteers, sponsors, and the community serve as a powerful reminder that connection and care can significantly enhance the lives of seniors, especially during challenging times.