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    Success Stories 2025

    Meals on Wheels Amador County (Amador Senior Center) – PSA 12

    The following is an excerpt from an email PSA 12 received from the Executive Director at Amador Senior Center (ASC):

    I imagine that you can feel at times distant from all the action in your roles. Please allow me to tell you one story to remind you that you make a huge difference.

    Carol started coming to ASC about a year ago for the congregate program and intergenerational activities after her mother passed away. The two lived together in a mobile home and enjoyed each other’s company while sharing financial responsibility for rent and household expenses. After her mother died, Carol was left with the entirety of the expenses. Her financial struggles left her in such despair that one day she grabbed her walker and braved driving to ASC.

    One of our staff members, after getting to know Carol and learning of her financial difficulties, sat with her to go over her budget. They discovered that Carol had exactly $5 per month left over after expenses if all went according to plan. As we know, life doesn’t go according to plan.

    Carol despairingly shared with our staff that she couldn’t afford to contribute to the meal program and didn’t want a handout, but due to mobility issues, she couldn’t volunteer in the dining room. Instead, she was trained in our check-in process to greet, help, and check-in clients.

    Carol found belonging and purpose and now beams with contagious joy. She feels like she makes a significant contribution to the program, while benefiting from the social connections she was craving and the meals to help her on her tight budget. Carol can’t wait to get to the center now, arriving over an hour early most days just to sit and chat with staff and clients while she gets her table ready.

    On Giving Tuesday last December, we promoted the opportunity to support the programs at the center. Wouldn’t you know it, I received a check from Carol for $5.00. Although we receive checks for this event up to thousands of dollars each, when I received the check from our center coordinator, I actually teared up. What I held in my hand was one of the most generous and sacrificial things I have seen in my life. I headed straight for Carol and said, "Carol, this is the most generous donation we have received for Giving Tuesday because I know the sacrifice you made to give it - Thank you!" Carol responded, "I was so lonely and depressed when my mom passed away and didn’t know what to do. The center has truly saved my life. I want to give back."

    Carol is not her real name, but her story is very real and you all at Area 12 are a part of Carol’s story. Carol is the person behind the numbers on the budget. Without your partnership, work, dedication, and funding ASC could not accomplish what we are able to in the lives of so many Carols. Be inspired today and thank you for all you and the staff of Area 12 do to partner with our organization to make a huge difference in the lives of older adults.

    Big Bear Valley Senior Center – PSA 20

    Kathleen at the Big Bear Valley Senior Center
    Kathleen at the Big Bear Valley Senior Center

    For the past 24 years, Kathleen has been an integral part of the Big Bear Valley Senior Center, where she has built lasting friendships and embraced every opportunity to engage with her community. At (almost) 94 years young, she continues to live independently with her three beloved cats, finding joy in daily activities, social gatherings, and even volunteering as a lunch server at the senior center. While she rarely misses a day at the Senior Nutrition program, she makes an exception when fish is on the menu—instead you’ll find her in the Eagle’s Roost activity lounge, skillfully playing pool!

    Originally from Brooklyn, Kathleen moved to Big Bear Lake in 2001 after the devastating loss of her entire family, including her only child. Alone in a new place, she was tasked with building a new community of support. Thanks to a caring neighbor who provided information about the local older adult lunch services, she found her way to the Big Bear Valley Senior Center, where she discovered a new sense of purpose and connection.

    Staff at the senior center say Kathleen is more than a participant; she is family. Her story exemplifies the power of senior centers in fostering connection, providing nutritious meals, and hosting activities that strengthen a community. A senior center staff member stated, "We are honored to have her as a cherished part of our program."

    Kathleen reminds us that true community is built on care, inclusion, and the simple act of showing up for one another.

    Bonnie Baker Senior Center – PSA 20

    In the quiet town of Big River, the Bonnie Baker Senior Center has long been a welcoming space for older adults, offering not just nutritious meals but also a sense of community. Thanks to the partnership between the California Department of Aging, the San Bernardino Department of Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian, and the Bonnie Baker Senior Center, older adults in the area can enjoy meals together or receive home-delivered meals when needed.

    Phyllis and Mark Berfield
    Phyllis and Mark Berfield

    Among the center’s many familiar faces, Mark and Phyllis Berfield stand out. Since joining the lunch program, they have embraced the experience wholeheartedly, making each meal a celebration of friendship and connection. For them, there is no better way to enjoy a meal than in the company of good friends. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and they frequently bring new faces to the table, welcoming others into their growing circle of friends.

    Each day, when the Berfields arrive, they bring with them a warmth that fills the dining room. Laughter, conversation, and camaraderie follow, creating a heartwarming atmosphere that touches everyone around them. Their presence reminds those in service of the deeper purpose of the nutrition program—not only to nourish the body but also to enrich lives by fostering meaningful connections.

    For the team at the Bonnie Baker Senior Center, witnessing these moments of joy reaffirms the importance of the program. In a rural area where social opportunities can be limited, the nutrition program is more than just a meal service—it’s a lifeline to community, friendship, and belonging. Through the simple act of sharing a meal, the Berfields and their fellow diners create a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported.

    Fifth Street Senior Center (San Bernardino) – PSA 20

    Mr. Edward’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the power of community support.

    A resident of Victorville for over 40 years, his life took a tragic turn after his beloved wife passed away. Struggling to maintain his living situation, he found himself in San Bernardino, homeless and facing the daily challenges of survival.

    For years, Mr. Edward relied on the kindness of organizations in the city, eventually finding solace at the Fifth Street Senior Center where he began regularly coming for lunch services. At the senior center, he found not only a nutritious meal but also a community that cared. Through the support and resources made available by age-friendly organizations, Mr. Edward has successfully transitioned into a safe, stable home.

    Today, Mr. Edward continues to visit the senior center not only for nourishing meals but also to engage in activities that bring joy and companionship. He is thriving in his new home and is grateful for the impact and transformation of his life since seeking that first meal.

    His journey reminds us that with the right social support and sense of connection, quality of life can be vastly improved. It is also a testament to the impact of compassionate service and the vital role of senior centers in transforming lives.

    Southeast Area Social Services Funding Authority (Santa Fe Springs) – PSA 19

    Porteay of Cecelia Flores
    Cecelia Flores

    El programa me ayudado porque tengo que comer saludable por mi condicion. Tambien porque no estoy fisica mente capacitada para poder cocinar sola. Gracias a SASSFA por toda su ayuda.

    The program has helped me because I have to eat healthy due to my health conditions. Also, because I am not physically capable of cooking a meal on my own. Thanks to SASSFA for all of their help.

    Cecelia Flores

    portray of Wanda Boutte
    Wanda Boutte

    Sometimes preparing meals can be challenging, but having a fresh meal delivered daily has made a big difference in my life. It's not just about the food; it's the consistency and knowing that someone is looking out for me.

    I really enjoy their hot meals. Each meal is well-balanced and provides enough food to keep me full. At my age, having nutritious meals is important, and this program ensures I'm eating something healthy every day. Thank you.

    Wanda Boutte

    City of Norwalk – PSA 19

    Portray of Kecia Friday
    Kecia Friday, home-delivered meals client

    The City of Norwalk, through collaborations with the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, observes significant transformations among our senior population. A notable example is Kecia Friday, a determined 60-year-old who has revitalized her life.

    During her six-month reassessment for the home-delivered meals program, Kecia shared that the program has offered her much more than just meals. Although she appreciates solitude and tranquility and views her apartment as her sanctuary, she noted that her meal delivery driver, Denelle, has encouraged her to engage more in face-to-face interactions. Kecia said she misses Denelle when she is not on duty and genuinely cares about her well-being. Although their exchanges are brief, they significantly enhance Kecia’s day. She also appreciates the meals provided, which have contributed to maintaining a balanced diet.

    YWCA of San Gabriel Valley – PSA 19

    Portray of Estelita Laureano
    Estelita Laureano

    Estelita Laureano has been one of the YWCA of San Gabriel Valley's Home-Delivered Meals Program clients for the past five years. Originally from the Philippines, Estelita moved to the U.S. with her husband in 1966, bringing with her a deep appreciation for community and the belief that "kindness begets kindness". When her husband passed away, she lost the ability to shop for groceries, as he was the driver. She received a call from the City of Monterey Park recommending she call the YWCA of San Gabriel Valley for meal service.

    She values giving back and helping others in any way she can. Because our meal program has been such a vital support in her life, Estelita is eager to help promote it so others in need can benefit as well. When asked about our meal services, she says that "the meals helped me maintain my health during times when it was difficult to prepare meals myself." She also told the team how grateful she is for the meals provided, which have taken a load off her shoulders.

    We are honored to serve Estelita and celebrate her commitment to our community and program.

    Department of Aging & Veteran Services – PSA 30

    The Department of Aging & Veteran Services (PSA 30) shared stories from their home-delivered meals and congregate programs:

    Home Delivered Meals, Modesto

    Martin Rizkowsky wearing a hat smiles while holding a stuffed animal close to his chest.
    Bill, HDM program participant

    At nearly 101 years old, Bill has lived a life of service, resilience, and quiet strength. In addition to being a proud WWII Navy Veteran, he’s also a Senior Meals Program veteran with over 16 years attendance. Here Bill has found more than just a hot meal — he found friendship, laughter, and a sense of community.

    As time passed and his health began to decline, Bill transitioned to the Senior Meals Home-Delivered (HDM) Program. While the setting changed, the care and connection remain. The warm meals that now arrive at his doorstep are more than nourishment — they’re lifelines of support and moments of meaningful connection.

    Each visit from the delivery driver brings a friendly face, a few kind words, and a reminder that he is not alone. For Bill, these daily deliveries are a window to the outside world — a source of comfort, dignity, and human connection that continues to enrich his life.

    As he prepares to celebrate his 101st birthday this July, Bill's story is a moving reminder of the impact of a simple act of care. Through the HDM Program, we see how food can nourish more than the body — it can uplift the spirit, honor a lifetime of service, and remind someone that they are deeply valued.

    Coffee Road Café, Modesto

    Mary and Wayne smiles while posing for a photo at a table, showcasing their affection and joy in a warm setting.
    Lowell, Coffee Road Café participant

    For Lowell, participating in the Senior Meals Program has made a meaningful difference in his daily life. Grateful for the nutritious, hot meals he receives, Lowell noticed two unexpected benefits: a boost in his energy and overall well­being, and a move from processed foods to adopting healthier eating habits. Both benefits positively impact his health.

    But the program's benefits go beyond nutrition. Coffee Road Café’s welcoming environment has become an important part of Lowell's routine, keeping him socially active and connected to others. He loves bringing music to the site, sharing his talent, and lifting spirits while forming lasting friendships.

    To Lowell, the Senior Meals Program is about more than meals — it’s a source of nourishment, joy, and community. His story is a powerful reminder of how access to healthy food and social connection can support older adults in living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

    Modesto Senior Center

    Catherine and Amor in matching black and red attire stand next to each other.
    Hilda and Roy, Modesto Senior Center participants

    For Hilda and Roy, the Senior Meals Program was far more than just a place to enjoy lunch — it was the beginning of a beautiful new chapter.

    Encouraged by a friend’s recommendation, Hilda arrived not knowing what to expect. There, she met Roy, a long-time participant whose warmth and kindness made her feel instantly at home. As they shared meals, laughter, and lively conversations over games, a simple connection blossomed into something extraordinary.

    In time, their friendship turned into love, and they were married — a heartwarming reminder that it's never too late to find joy, companionship, and a new beginning.

    The Senior Meals Program became more than a service — it became a place where lives are enriched, connections are made, and love stories are written. Hilda and Roy's journey is a powerful testament to the lasting impact of community and the transformative power of simply showing up.

    Santa Clara County SNP (Vietnamese American Service Center) – PSA 10

    People celebrating lunar new year
    Lunar New Year performance at the VASC

    Santa Clara County Senior Nutrition Program (SNP) provides services to one of the county’s most diverse populations.

    Mr. Doan and MRs.Tang smiling and standing
    Mr. Doan and Mrs. Tang

    The SNP at the Vietnamese American Service Center (VASC) offers a unique virtual dine-in option for participants in the To-Go Meal Program. They pick up their meals and then enjoy them at home while engaging in discussions on a virtual platform administered by VASC nutrition staff.

    Conversations usually start with topics ranging from health to traveling to current events. These virtual gatherings can become very lively with individuals taking turns singing, playing instruments, or showing off self-made arts and crafts. Their shared interest in the arts motivated them to plan and conduct performances during the recent Lunar New Year. The daily lunch hour bonding time allowed them to step out of their comfort zone, and for many, perform in front of a live audience for the first time.

    The virtual program has also improved the lives of a married couple, Mr. Doan and Mrs. Tang. Over time, this pleasant but quiet couple made friends and became more talkative and cheerful. Mrs. Tang’s medical conditions and limited mobility often result in frequent hospital stays. During these times, Mr. Doan picks up his meals at VASC to enjoy while visiting with his wife, and together they log in to the center virtually. The virtual dine-in format allows them to stay connected with their friends, and this connection helps with Mrs. Tang’s physical, mental and emotional healing process. The positive impact of this one-of-a-kind virtual dine-in program extends beyond nutrition. It fosters community, combats isolation, and enhances the overall quality of life of the older adults.

    ONEgeneration (Wilkinson Senior Center) – PSA 25

    Liliana holding a bow and arrow and smiling for picture
    Liliana at the Wilkinson Senior Center

    ONEgeneration Wilkinson Senior Center provides hot meals encouraging seniors to come together and build meaningful connections. At our successful Valentine’s Dance, 110 participants enjoyed salmon with dill sauce, one of our most popular meals. These events highlight the importance of community and the joy shared meals can bring.

    Liliana, a senior center client, showed her Valentine’s spirit by dressing as Cupid for the occasion. She shared she "always feels welcome" and "appreciates the nutritious meals" we serve.

    Meals on Wheels Salinas – PSA 32

    Our Home-Delivered Meals program serves homebound seniors throughout the Salinas Valley. In 2021, we realized we needed to expand our reach and start a new program to help those seniors coping with isolation and loneliness due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We created a new lunch program for those active seniors eager to get out of their homes and interact with others in their communities.

    MOWSV now hosts monthly events at six sites in collaboration with community partners. These socials have been more successful than we could have imagined. Seniors are treated to entertainment, art projects, bingo, and more. The Food Bank for Monterey County provides produce boxes at most sites and also caters some of the lunches via their Food Truck - a fully staffed kitchen on wheels. We are thankful and grateful to the staff at each site for collaborating with us to host these lunch socials.

    Seniors enjoying Meals on Wheels social
    Seniors enjoying a MOWSV social

    Many of the seniors share that they look forward to gathering and socializing at these monthly socials. Each site’s unique personality reflects the enthusiasm and spirit of its participants. A Greenfield senior says, "It is a way to have fun, and it gives us something to look forward to." A King City senior shares, "I like to come because it helps me with my illness and I feel happy." Another adds, "Everything is wonderful to cheer my heart, my mind. Thank you!" To sum up the importance of these events, a Salinas senior shares, "I am 74 and music and social interaction keep me alive!"

    The success of these events is due in part to the senior resource agencies in attendance each month, providing seniors with helpful and important information tailored for Salinas Valley’s senior population.

    Meals on Wheels Orange County – PSA 22

    Robert received his meals
    Robert, MOW OC participant

    "I’m living the life of Riley, and I’m so grateful. Things could be a whole lot worse!"

    67-year-old Robert’s upbeat attitude and healthy lifestyle help him live his best life possible. Staying mentally and physically active while eating a nutrition-packed diet provided by Meals on Wheels OC is his tried-and-true recipe for sustaining the independent lifestyle he loves.

    Robert leads this active independent lifestyle even though glaucoma has stolen most of his sight.

    His limited visibility prevents him from driving and cooking, so the ease of Meals on Wheels home deliveries and microwaveable meals has been life changing. Robert loves knowing he can count on getting the healthy nutrition he needs with each meal delivery.

    Rober tstands holding a tray of heated up food

    "I’m a bachelor, and I wasn’t eating right. I underestimated the importance of good nutrition. One of my most wonderful things is vegetables because I was never inclined to buy vegetables. Now I eat vegetables, and I’m getting healthy! Meals on Wheels has been a blessing in disguise."

    "Every day is like dinner at home when I was younger," Robert reminisces. "We always ate greens, carrots, broccoli, and spinach. I’ve never prepared broccoli, and I don’t remember the last time I ate a carrot before Meals on Wheels! I love the milk included in the lunch trays. I haven’t drunk this much milk in years. I really enjoy it!"

    Of the reliable and friendly deliveries, Robert says, "The deliveries are prompt…like clockwork. And they are the nicest, most wonderful delivery people."

    In addition to focusing on nutrition, Robert keeps his mind sharp learning technology while taking classes at the Braille Institute and stays physically active by walking regularly with his cane.

    Fresno/Madera Area Agency on Aging (Huron Senior Center) – PSA 14

    In December 2024, the Fresno-Madera Area Agency on Aging (FMAAA) successfully reopened one of its most rural senior centers, the Huron Senior Center. The center has since averaged 20-25 daily participants enjoying a nutritious hot meal. The Site Coordinator shares this participant’s heartwarming story:

    A group of people dining at tables in a well-lit room, engaged in conversation and enjoying their meals together.
    Huron Senior Center lunch participants

    In 2018, one of our participants was involved in an auto accident which almost took his life. After spending a year in the hospital, followed by many physical and financial challenges, he became homeless and lost his disability benefits. He was blessed by an owner of a group home, who provided him a place to live at no cost; however, due to the challenges of trying to find employment, he has struggled daily to afford meals.

    Since the Huron Senior Center’s reopening, he has been attending each day. The Huron Senior Center provides hope and ensures he has at least one hot meal during the day.

    Many seniors in the Huron community face challenges finding support resources in such a rural area. FMAAA is proud to help alleviate those challenges by providing the senior community a daily hot meal and also providing shelf-stable meals when necessary.

    Family Service Association (FSA) – PSA 20

    FSA shared stories from their participants at their nutrition program sites:

    Grace Vargas Senior Center (Rialto)

    Martin Rizkowsky wearing a hat smiles while holding a stuffed animal close to his chest.
    Martin Rizkowsky

    It is a joy to come have a great nutritious lunch and great music that I love to dance to several days a week. Barbara is so professional and polite, and her staff is wonderful, too. Barbara even goes all out decorating for the holidays. Being able to sit at a table and have a good meal with wonderful friends is so helpful. Even meeting new people is cool too.

    Martin Rizkowsky

    Mary and Wayne smiles while posing for a photo at a table, showcasing their affection and joy in a warm setting.
    Mary and Wayne Moore

    My husband and I have lunch here three to five times a week. Lunches are healthy and it's my main meal. We are fortunate to have the lunches and enjoy the company of all the friends we have here. All the staff is friendly and helpful and the manager looks after everything. The bands help us feel welcome and enjoy everyone together and the dances are good exercise. It is a safe place to have fun, and we are grateful for it. Thanks to everyone who made it possible to have the program.

    Mary and Wayne Moore

    Loma Linda Senior Center – PSA 20

    Catherine Howard’s story is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the profound impact of community service. Just before the pandemic, she was hired as a volunteer at the Loma Linda Senior Center, excited to contribute to a space that serves as a lifeline for so many. When the center was forced to close, she, like many, experienced the loss of connection with others.

    Catherine and Amor in matching black and red attire stand next to each other.
    Volunteers Catherine Howard and Amor Rodolakis

    When the doors reopened, Catherine was given a second chance to volunteer and embraced the opportunity to serve her peers. For her, the senior center is more than just a place to serve. Catherine states, "It is a blessing." She has witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts of the two dedicated staff members who have efficiently operated the center since its reopening. Their work, along with the contributions of a fantastic chef and other committed volunteers, ensures that participants receive delicious, hot meals.

    Beyond meals, the center offers art activities, educational classes, bus passes, driving courses, and even tax assistance, all designed to support the well-being of local older adults. Catherine is especially inspired by the chef, who not only prepares nourishing meals but also decorates the center through her own volunteer efforts, hosting tea parties and providing surprise treats that bring joy to everyone.

    The senior center is a pillar of support, connection, and care in the community. Catherine’s journey from volunteer to advocate highlights the power of service and the importance of local senior centers that profoundly enrich the lives of older adults. Catherine says she is proud to be a part of something bigger than herself and encourages others to join in making a meaningful difference in their community.

    Project Open Hand (Curry Senior Center) – PSA 6

    Garrett sitting at a table, smiling, with a plate of food in front of him.
    Garrett enjoying lunch at the Curry Senior Center

    On a Wednesday afternoon, Garret can be found enjoying a meal at Curry Senior Center. The Center is one of 11 Community Nutrition Program sites where Project Open Hand provides warm, nutritious meals daily. Garret is a regular for the community and the meals: "I enjoy meeting people, celebrating cultures, and getting nutrition."

    Garret never thought he’d be able to have such a healthy lifestyle. A former heroin addict, one day Garret took in his surroundings and thought: "Drug addicts don’t last long on the streets. I’ll continue to be in and out of prison – or dead."

    Through the support of his grandmother, he was finally able to stop using heroin. A few years later, Garret also was able to overcome a cigarette addiction. "I did something very few can do. I kicked a 28-year heroin addiction and a 34-year cigarette addiction." Garret says, "I am proud of how I have carried myself since then as a responsible senior citizen. I try to do things the right way, live the right way, and it paid off."

    Nowadays, Garret spends time at the Center participating in programs, including Project Open Hand’s meal services. He believes the meals are nutritionally sound, cover every important food group, and help him stay healthy.

    Garret has made friends socializing over meals and also through the Center’s activities, which is important to him. The communal setting and the nutritious food help him stay upright. He shares, "Project Open Hand has been feeding people for 40 years. I’m happy there are places like this to go to. Places like this help me."

    Self-Help for the Elderly – PSA 6

    As a senior, I am deeply grateful for the services provided by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DAS) and Self-Help for the Elderly. These services have not only enriched my daily life but have also made me feel valued and cared for by society.

    As I grow older, I have noticed a decline in my physical abilities, and some of the activities I once enjoyed have become more difficult. Fortunately, I discovered the Self-Help for the Elderly lunch and activity centers.

    Here, I receive nutritious meals that keep me healthy, while also enjoying the company of friends. Sharing meals in a lively and welcoming environment helps to reduce the loneliness that sometimes accompanies aging.

    Beyond meals, the center offers a variety of activities such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, dance, calligraphy, and health seminars. These programs keep us physically and mentally engaged while allowing us to make new friends and build a support network. Each day, I look forward to visiting the center because it is a place filled with laughter, care, and companionship—giving meaning and joy to my retirement years.

    Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand how these programs have transformed our lives. Many seniors, including myself, have become healthier and happier thanks to this community. DAS and Self-Help for the Elderly do more than just provide services—they give us a home, a place where we can care for one another and feel a sense of belonging.

    City of Burbank – PSA 19

    Joslyn Senior Center

    Mrs. Cecilia Greenwalt stands beside a bulletin board covered with flyers and announcements, engaging with the displayed content.
    Mrs. Cecilia Greenwalt,
    volunteer at the Joslyn Senior Center

    Mrs. Cecilia Greenwalt has been volunteering at the Joslyn Senior Center for the past 20 years. She stated the nutrition program has helped her a lot during COVID while food was very hard to get. She enjoys coming into the center to serve our seniors with our nutritious meals while making sure she provides the best one-on-one customer service during our current hybrid program. Cecilia is very grateful for the staff and our Burbank community.

    Don Tuttle Senior Center

    Burbank’s Don Tuttle Senior Center provides nutritious meals for our Older Californians Nutrition Program (OCNP) clients. Here’s what one client says about the program:

    Here’s what one client says about the program:

    A dish with cooked meat, bright green peas, and a side of bread, all artfully displayed on a white plate.
    Lunch at the Don Tuttle Senior Center

    "As a senior citizen on a fixed income, it is difficult to find nutritious food at a fair price. The nutrition program allows me to have high quality lunches five days a week. Without this program, my health would not be as good as it is now. On top of that, look at the amazing quality of the lunches served! Thank you, Older Californians Nutrition Program."

    Human Services Association (Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center) – PSA 19

    Sara in a wheelchair, snugly wrapped in a blanket, appears peaceful and reflective in her surroundings.
    Sara at the ADCRC

    Sara is one of our Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center (ADCRC) clients and has come a long way from when she first started attending ADCRC. She was very involved and her dementia was not as advanced. She enjoyed being around others and would much rather be with her community. Now Sara attends the five days per week and receives nutritious meals through our Congregate Meals Program to support her overall health. Maria, her daughter, is relieved, feeling peace of mind knowing her mom is receiving the right care in a safe and supportive environment. Maria appreciates that ADCRC goes beyond expectations to make sure Sara has fun with the activities provided in a social setting.

    ONEgeneration (Las Palmas) – PSA 19

    Gloria Villalpando wearing a black sweater stands in front of a plain wall, looking directly at the camera.
    Gloria Villalpando

    Gloria Villalpando, who recently joined ONEgeneration meal service, was affected by the loss of her father. Attending this program has made her feel comfortable with the presence of others, many of whom remind her of her father. The safe, caring environment helped her find peace and joy during a difficult time. Gloria deeply appreciates the program's focus on caring for seniors and the social interaction she's able to receive.

    Mario Diaz in a hat and jacket stands confidently in front of a closed door.
    Mario Diaz

    After only one year in the program, Mario Diaz formed strong friendships with other participants. Pickleball games and social interactions with his fellow participants have become an important part of his daily routine. He also found the friendly staff and volunteers to be welcoming, making him feel like part of the community. Mario looks forward to coming to the program every day, where he enjoys spending time with his new friends.

    The Salvation Army (El Cajon Red Shield) – PSA 23

    Marilyn Bernstone stands with a microphone in front of a Salvation Army sign, ready to speak.
    Marilyn Bernstone

    I’ve been going to the Salvation Army’s Club 60 for at least 15 years and have had the opportunity to meet many nice people. I enjoy attending often, and especially on Fridays when they have bingo. It’s a lot of fun and has been a great way to make new friends. The cost of food is so high, but thanks to the Salvation Army’s lunch service, I have been able to save money on my food budget. I really enjoy the food too, which is an added benefit!

    Over the past few years, the staff have asked me to sing to the people. As someone who comes from a musical family, I find great enjoyment in sharing my talent with others. Some of my favorite songs to sing are "Abracadabra" by Steve Miller Band and "Full Moon and Empty Arms" by Frank Sinatra.

    All the things I’ve mentioned have enriched by life and make me happy to be a customer of the Salvation Army.

    Sincerely,

    Marilyn Bernstone

    Serving Seniors – PSA 23

    Serving seniors logo

    One of Serving Senior’s home-delivered meals clients shared their appreciation of the program:

    Dear Serving Seniors,

    I'd just like to take a moment to say THANK YOU for the food assistance I've been blessed to receive from you. It has really been helping me. With no car and not knowing how to use the Internet, I've had a lot of trouble receiving any other assistance and your staff always answer my calls. I appreciate your service, food and delivery. The delivery people are kind and personable. I really appreciate the helping hand, helping me to get back on track.

    Mama’s Kitchen – PSA 23

    A.G. began meal services at Mama’s Kitchen when she was having difficulty with activities such as transferring in/out of a chair, shopping, transportation, and also had uncontrolled diabetes.

    Mama’s Kitchen medically tailored meal
    Mama’s Kitchen medically tailored meal

    In addition to receiving three medically tailored meals each day, she participated in our nutrition education program where she spoke with a Registered Dietitian (RD) monthly for three months. She reported that she had not received individualized nutrition education in the 10 years since being diagnosed with diabetes. The RD went over how different types of carbohydrates affect blood sugars, the importance of balanced meals, whole grains and fiber, and explained carbohydrate counting in detail. A.G. found the various topics to be very insightful and helpful with managing her blood sugars. During the nutrition calls, she reported her blood sugars had significantly improved and that our meals were very helpful in managing her health. Receiving home-delivered meals also provided security and consistency when she was experiencing physical challenges daily.

    A.G is still a Mama’s Kitchen client and loves the meals that we provide her for each day of the week.

    Café Costa (Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District) – PSA 7

    Café Costa (Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District)
    Cafe Costa team

    Here in Pleasant Hill, we have the privilege and honor of serving an average of 235 clients on a weekly basis. In addition to our Pleasant Hill clients, we serve clients from neighboring cities including Concord, Martinez, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, and Antioch. Café Costa not only provides a place for our clients to gather, but it’s also a place to enhance social connection, quality of life, healthy eating, and belonging.

    We are truly thankful for the opportunity to provide this service and a safe environment for our active aging community.

    Meals on Wheels Diablo Region – PSA 7

    Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region shared the following story about Henry, one of their home-delivered meals clients.

    As a minister, Henry has dedicated himself to serving his community through various food drives and community support programs. His work took him to cities all over the Bay Area, where he witnessed firsthand the transformative power of kindness and compassion while working with and teaching children. "Some of the kids I've worked with are all grown up doing big things like working for Apple or flying airplanes" he says with pride.

    Recently Henry experienced some memory issues, making it difficult for him to prepare meals on a regular basis. After seeing a MOW Diablo Region television commercial, he made a phone call and connected with life-changing services.

    "I get what I need to sustain myself! I don't have to pay, I don't have to cook, and I don't have to worry about the stove," says Henry.

    For Henry, the impact of MOW Diablo Region goes beyond the meals he receives. "I have so many good things to say about my experiences with the organization. I can really feel they care. I don't know where I would be without MOW Diablo Region."

    Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (Pacific Grove) – PSA 32

    Meal delivery for MOW of the Monterey Peninsula.
    Meal delivery for MOW of the Monterey Peninsula

    As we look toward the future of our Meals on Wheels program here on the Monterey Peninsula, it's important to take stock of our achievements and anticipate the challenges we will face in the coming years. With over a million volunteer hours and nearly seven million meals delivered, we've made a tremendous impact on the community we serve. However, we know our work is far from over.

    As the demand for our services continues to grow, we continue to develop new strategies and programs ensuring we can meet the needs of seniors, veterans, the disabled, and other underserved populations in our area. While our home-delivered meals program is the most well-known aspect of our work, it's just one of the many ways we support our clients. We are proud to report our Meals on Wheels Community Center is going strong with a much-anticipated increase in participation in our congregate meal program, exercise classes, learning opportunities, and entertainment.

    Our dedicated volunteers provide critical social interaction and keep an eye out for any health or safety issues that may arise. As a result of these connections, we've been able to expand our services beyond meal delivery by offering home safety upgrades and providing meals to those in need during emergencies like wildfires and flooding. We're proud to be a trusted partner in the community, and we look forward to continuing our work for the next 50 years and beyond.

    ONEgeneration (Wilkinson Senior Center) – PSA 25

    Jessie stands in front of a door, holding a bag of food with a smile on his face.
    Jessie C.

    Each year the City of Los Angeles Department of Aging works with private funding to provide warm, delicious Thanksgiving meals to home-delivered meal clients.

    The volunteers who deliver the meals on Thanksgiving Day report it not only brightens the day for the older adults, but theirs as well.

    Jessie C., a participant of the Wilkinson Multipurpose Senior Center, says, "I am grateful for this program. Thank you for working on Thanksgiving Day to provide us meals."