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As food prices and the cost of living continue to increase, a March campaign saw Ontario Meals on Wheels programs join forces to raise awareness and support for the essential service.
The March for Meals campaign helped raise awareness of the more than 100 not-for-profit organizations, including North Shore Health Network (NSHN), which delivered over 3 million meals to over 60,000 vulnerable seniors across the province in 2023.
NSHN has provided Meals on Wheels in Blind River for at least 20 years, serving an estimated 55,000 meals, says Maiya Hallett, Community Support Services Manager for NSHN.
"Despite the importance of and growing demand for Meals on Wheels services, government funding only covers a portion of the cost, leaving service providers to cover the rest with donations and client fees, which are kept as low as possible," Hallett explains.
The March for Meals campaign ensures organizations like NSHN can continue to address food insecurity and malnutrition, combat social isolation, enable independence, and improve health for decades. The 2024 campaign also connected NSHN with Mayor Sally Hagman and the East Algoma OPP to help raise awareness for Meals on Wheels throughout the year.
Currently, NSHN has 12 dedicated volunteers for Meals on Wheels who deliver roughly 300 meals monthly, but more volunteers are needed to ensure a sustainable future.
"Unfortunately, while demand for service is growing, volunteerism is dwindling, and many of the incredible volunteers are seniors themselves," Hallett says. "To help continue this essential community service, people can volunteer their time to deliver meals in Blind River."
However, donations and spreading awareness of the NSHN Meals on Wheels program are another way to help support the much-needed service.
To learn more about the NSHN Meals on Wheels Service, visit their website here.
