More People Requesting Help From Meals on Wheels

By Edita McQuary

Demand for Meals on Wheels is up markedly since the COVID-19 outbreak, according to Community Bridges, a longtime local nonprofit that runs the program.

Last year Meals on Wheels provided about 2,700 meals a week to approximately 1,600 seniors. Since March 16, when the congregate dining sites were closed to slow the spread of the coronavirus, 162 new seniors have signed up to get a meal delivered to their home.

Amy Hanley, Community Bridges marketing and communications manager, working from home, said the increase in demand for meals meant mobilizing staff, ramp up purchasing process and buy a new freezer to meet the need. Plans are to purchase a second freezer.

Meals on Wheels had delivered food to about 100 seniors at the Louden Nelson Community Center in the city of Santa Cruz until its closed last month. About half of these elders were homeless.

Now their drivers are going out into the community to find these participants and provide them with a meal.

There is no income requirement to receive Meals on Wheels. However, if a senior is able to pay, he or she can pay $2.50 per meal, or more if they so desire.

Enrollment is online at https://communitybridges.org/mealsonwheels or 831-464-3180 X10.

Additionally, Community Bridges Lift Line program, which serves 625 low income or disabled persons in Santa Cruz County, has expanded. Now any senior or person with a disability, regardless of income level, can get a ride to essential services including grocery stores. Rides can be scheduled in advance, but same day service may be available depending on capacity.

Lift Line can be reached at 831-688-9663.