March for Meals is almost here
Each year, Meals on Wheels (MOW) providers across Ontario, including VON, participate in March for Meals, a campaign to increase awareness of the necessity of the program to people in our communities.
Meals on Wheels is more than just a meal delivery service—it’s a lifeline for many seniors and people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness or injury. This indispensable service has been nourishing communities for decades, and the need for it only continues to grow.
Government funding covers some of the costs of delivering the MOW program. The difference is made up through donations and/or client fees.
The vital role of volunteers
The program also relies on dedicated volunteers, who help to package and deliver much-needed meals. For many recipients, particularly those living alone, the visit from an MOW volunteer may be the only human interaction they experience in a day. Beyond the nutritional benefits, these visits provide vital social interaction, helping to combat isolation and loneliness and increase personal safety.
In 2022-2023, VON delivered 423,460 meals in Ontario and 289,308 in Nova Scotia, thanks to our dedicated teams of staff and volunteers.
How can you help?
During the Ontario Community Support Association’s (OCSA) Community Champions Week (celebrated March 18 – 22, 2024), Meals on Wheels providers are encouraged to welcome their local mayors, elected officials and prominent community figures to deliver meals and raise awareness for this vital service.
Volunteer. Donate. Share.
When you see #MarchForMeals on social media in the coming weeks, please like, comment and share to thank these champions for their work, and help us to get more volunteers in the communities we serve!
If you or someone you know can possibly deliver Meals on Wheels in your community, please connect with us. Even a couple of hours per week can help! And we welcome pairs and groups of volunteers working together.
More people mean a lighter load for our existing volunteers. If you and your staff are able to lend a hand, please contact us at von.ca/volunteer. This is a unique way to practice corporate social responsibility.
Donate now to support Meals on Wheels. Or fill out our volunteer application form.
