In the United States, nearly 5.6 million seniors face food insecurity, and 1.3 million seniors struggle with hunger while also living alone.
That’s where Meals on Wheels West Michigan comes in, and this year, they’re celebrating 40 years.
For four decades, the nonprofit has been helping seniors keep their independence through their meal delivery program and other supportive services free of charge.
Meals on Wheels West Michigan serves around 6,000 seniors annually with the help of nearly 1,000 volunteers. Organizers say the need only continues to grow.
“I don’t think we’ve even hit the tip of the iceberg yet, because if you didn’t know, 10,000 people a day are turning 60 in the United States,” said Meals on Wheels West Michigan President and CEO Lisa Wideman.
Wideman says statistics like that show why their services are crucial.
“It’s not stopping anytime soon, and people are sicker, they need more help. There’s not as many family caregivers to help with the older adults, and so that’s where we come in,” Wideman said.