Each weekday, as lunchtime approaches, Agency on Aging employees gather behind the counter, working side by side to dish up hot meals that Meals on Wheels volunteers will be delivering to their recipients. Their mission? To bring warm, nutritious meals to homebound seniors across our community. But Meals on Wheels is about so much more than food—it’s about connection, security, and the dignity of aging in place.
This March, we are joining communities across the country in the March for Meals campaign, an annual initiative to raise awareness and support for local senior nutrition programs. In Flathead County, our Meals on Wheels program delivers nearly 350 meals a day to seniors in Kalispell, Evergreen, Whitefish, North Valley, Bigfork, and Lakeside. For many, that knock on the door is the only human contact they have all day.
A Legacy of Nourishment and Care
Each March, Meals on Wheels celebrates the historic day in 1972 when a national nutrition program for seniors was added to the Older Americans Act. This legislation fueled the rapid growth of the Meals on Wheels network, which now serves 2.8 million seniors each year.
This year's March for Meals comes at a critical time. Even as inflation slows, eight out of ten local Meals on Wheels programs are still serving more seniors than they were before the pandemic. At the same time, operational and food costs continue to rise, making community support more important than ever.
A Lifeline for Local Seniors
The need is growing. With an aging population and rising costs, more seniors than ever rely on Meals on Wheels for both nourishment and companionship. These meals help prevent malnutrition, reduce hospital visits, and allow seniors to remain independent in their own homes. But the impact doesn’t stop at the meal—our drivers also provide a critical safety check, ensuring that seniors are safe and well.
One Bigfork recipient recently shared how a volunteer’s visit quite literally saved her life. When she didn’t answer the door, her driver sensed something was wrong and called for help. It turned out she had fallen hours before and was unable to reach the phone. Thanks to Meals on Wheels, she received medical attention in time.
How You Can Help
Our ability to serve seniors depends on community support. March for Meals is a call to action—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
• Volunteer: We need drivers to deliver meals and brighten someone’s day with a friendly visit. Even one day a week makes a difference.
• Donate: Every contribution helps us continue providing meals to those in need.
• Advocate: Share the importance of senior nutrition programs and encourage local businesses, organizations, and individuals to get involved.
As we take part in March for Meals, let’s remember that a meal is more than just food—it’s a reminder that no senior in our community is forgotten. Together, we can ensure that our aging neighbors receive the nourishment, companionship, and support they deserve.
To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit the Flathead County Agency on Aging website or call (406) 758-5730.