The Meals On Wheels People organization serves over 28,000 meals per week in the Portland-Vancouver Metro area, but the service will soon change at Clark County satellite sites.
Jaclyn Miller, director of marketing and communications for Meals On Wheels People, based out of Portland, stated in an email that changes to Clark County service is due to, “operating in a time of significant uncertainty, and the future of federal funding for aging services is unclear.”
“At the same time, we are facing rising food, staffing and overhead costs, the loss of pandemic-era funding, and increased demand for our services,” Miller stated. “To remain strong and sustainable in the face of these challenges, we are making thoughtful changes to how we operate with efficiency and longevity in mind.”
The changes in uncertain times won’t be too drastic, however. For the most part, service will be similar to the past. Miller stated that an alternative service model was proposed to Clark County satellite sites in June, with locations changing some basics such as food delivery. In June, Miller stated the organization proposed continuing weekly meals that would be prepared at a nearby Meals on Wheels People Center. But Satellite sites would need to arrange for transportation of the meals from the Meals on Wheels People site and service of the meals at their site. Miller added that Meals on Wheels People would still assist in soliciting volunteers at the sites if needed.
What’s Changing
Ridgefield – Church of the Nazarene:
Amboy – Mt. Valley Grange:
La Center – La Center Community Center:
Miller stated that home delivery service in Clark County is unaffected by the service changes. The Diner’s Club program – which is one of the largest in the country – remains intact and is a great option for older adults to dine out at local small businesses who are investing in their communities, Miller added.
She added that for Ridgefield area residents, the Diner’s Club program has grown and now includes El Rancho Viejo, 122 South Third Ave., in Ridgefield.
“We are seeking new restaurants to join the program and expand the number of options for older adults to dine out with more options and with dignity,” Miller stated.
The service adjustments will allow Meals On Wheels People to reduce costs while maintaining a commitment to quality and care, Miller added.
“Every dollar we save through efficient operations goes directly back into supporting more participants and meals,” Miller stated. “Our focus remains on connection, nourishment, and dignity for every person we serve.”
To date, Meals On Wheels People receives around 66% of its annual operating budget through individual donations, to learn more, visit mowp.org.
