For many older adults, especially those living alone, regular meal delivery makes it possible to stay in their own homes rather than move into assisted living.

A significant number of seniors live on fixed incomes. After rent, utilities, medication and transportation, meeting nutritional needs can become an afterthought.

Meals on Wheels provides reliable, nutritionally balanced meals to people who might otherwise skip meals or rely on low-cost, low-nutrition options.

Because of the critical nature of Meals on Wheels, and because of the long wait list for the program, Cobb County Senior Services, a local provider for Meals on Wheels, will participate in March for Meals, a national month-long awareness campaign led by Meals on Wheels America. 

According to a press release from Cobb Senior Services, this year’s campaign focuses on ending the wait for the thousands of seniors waiting for meals and connection nationwide.  

“Receiving Meals on Wheels services can be life-changing for a senior who can no longer cook or shop for themselves,” says Ioana Bovo-Nicolescu, Director, Cobb County Senior Services. “However, with the number of older adults in our community growing, we have more seniors turning to us for meals than we have funding to serve. When we receive support from individuals, businesses or other groups, that gift goes directly to provide meals for those who would otherwise remain on the waitlist.” 

In addition to meeting the nutritional needs of the recipients, the program also provides much-needed social interaction.

“It’s not just about the meals. Many seniors in the program don’t have a lot of visitors or contact with others. A visit from a friendly volunteer provides human connection and allows for a wellness check. If a senior is experiencing other challenges, the volunteer can alert our case managers or call for emergency assistance for more urgent matters,” says Bovo-Nicolescu. 

Cobb County Senior Services is asking the community to ensure that their older neighbors receive this vital service. To donate, visit https://cobbcounty.gov/senior-services/You can also email  cobbseniors@cobbcounty.gov to explore other ways of supporting the program. 

About Cobb County Senior Services

According to materials from Cobb County Senior Services:

For more than 50 years, Cobb County Senior Services (CCSS) has provided older adults (55+) and their families with programs and resources such as Meals on Wheels, transportation, Veteran outreach, care management, and volunteer opportunities. CCSS operates seven senior centers throughout Cobb County, offering engaging activities, educational classes, fitness programs, workout rooms, social events, day trips, and more. For more information, visit www.cobbseniors.org or call 770-528-5355.