WHAT IS MEALS ON WHEELS?
Committed to our seniors since 1973, Meals on Wheels Montgomery County provides home-delivered meals, safety checks, and transportation services to homebound seniors living in Montgomery County. These services improve the lives of our aging seniors by alleviating hunger and allowing them to remain safe in their own homes. The benefits extend to caregivers, family, and friends, who no longer face the high cost of nursing home facilities or the stress of caring for their loved one alone.
WHY IS MOW NEEDED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY?
There are many people in our community who for a variety of reasons are unable to cook or shop for themselves with ease. Their ability to live independently is enhanced by Meals on Wheels Services, such as home-delivered meals, safety checks, congregate dining, and senior rides.
The reality is that 9 million seniors in America struggle with hunger, 15 million live in isolation and 18 million live in or near poverty. This problem will only become more serious as the senior population is projected to double by 2050. Families are spread out and elders are left behind, often struggling to remain self-sufficient.
WHO ARE THE CLIENTS OF MEALS ON WHEELS?
We serve more than 850 seniors from 60 to 100+ years old each year. These are our loved-ones, parents, grandparents, veterans and neighbors. They are older than 60 and, because of physical limitations or financial difficulties, struggle to shop for or prepare meals for themselves. From the rural areas of our county to the urban portions, we cover all 1000 square miles of Montgomery County. More than 20% of the people we serve are veterans (over 20%). 64% of clients are women. 80% live in poverty. 100% would love to meet you.
Independent seniors can receive hot nutritious lunches through congregate dining at four locations in the Montgomery County: The Woodlands, Conroe, Magnolia, and New Caney.
DOES MEALS ON WHEELS PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION?
Yes. Meals on Wheels has two senior transportation options depending on the needs of the client. Our Bus program is a door to door transportation program that can be used for various needs throughout the Montgomery County area. This service is provided for disabled clients and seniors over 60 years old. All of our buses are ADA compliant. We also provide a Senior RIDES program that uses taxis to transport disabled clients and seniors over the age of 65 to medical appointments within Montgomery County.
CAN MY COMPANY OR GROUP SET UP VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
Yes! Companies or organizations interested in creating group volunteer opportunities or team building can express interest by sending an email to Lisa@mowmc.org
WHO PREPARES THE FOOD?
Our chef! Chef John and his team, along with volunteers who want to help in the kitchen prepare the meals. Food preparation is not part of the meal delivery volunteer assignment. Meals are individually packaged to be handed off simply to clients.
WHY IS THERE A VETTING PROCESS FOR VOLUNTEERS?
Meals on Wheels receives some funding through grants that requires this vetting process. We are invested in the safety of our clients. You will be asked to undergo a background check process prior to delivering meals to clients.
HOW OFTEN WILL I BE EXPECTED TO VOLUNTEER?
We can set up a volunteer schedule that works with yours. Whether that be once a week, once a month or as needed, just let us know your preference and we will get you plugged in.
WILL I ALWAYS VOLUNTEER WITH THE SAME CLIENTS?
Typically, recurring volunteers can sign up for a set schedule and delivery route, therefore allowing you to visit the same seniors on a regular basis. However, there is often a need to fill in open volunteer slots or to volunteer on different schedules which could result in serving different clients on different days. We also have a list for substitute volunteers to handle routes when the regular volunteer is ill or out of town.
CAN I RESCHEDULE WHEN SOMETHING COMES UP?
Schedules are typically flexible with appropriate notice. Once you’re connected with the Volunteer Manager, you’ll be able to work directly with them to manage your volunteer schedule.
HOW DO I FIND ADDITIONAL HELP FOR MY SENIOR LOVED ONE?
For additional services, please dial 2-1-1 or visit www.211texas.org
