50 Years of Nourishing Independence & Connection
Driven by compassionate volunteers and local support, Meals on Wheels of Greater Lynchburg has been delivering hot meals, friendly visits, and peace of mind to our neighbors since 1974.
Our Mission
Meals on Wheels of Greater Lynchburg addresses the hunger, isolation, and unique needs of the homebound. Driven by volunteers who embody compassionate care, Meals on Wheels strengthens our community by delivering hot, nutritious meals, friendly visits, and safety checks – empowering people to live valued, independent lives at home.
Our Vision
Our Vision is for a Greater Lynchburg area where our homebound neighbors live nourished and valued lives.
Our Beliefs
- Being homebound creates unique needs that can be addressed by home delivered meals.
- When people are physically nourished, they can make healthier life choices.
- When isolation is alleviated, spirits thrive.
- The caring commitment of our volunteers multiplies the benefits of their deliveries.
- Volunteers enjoy purpose through opportunities to directly impact the lives of friends and neighbors.
- Through thoughtful community collaboration, Meals on Wheels can achieve more, and the homebound are better served.
- Consistent nourishment strengthens the social and financial health of the community and provides peace of mind to families and neighbors.
The History of Meals on Wheels
Historically, the Red Cross in London, England, originated the concept of Meals on Wheels after World War II. Over the next several decades, the concept spread to other countries around the world. In the US, the concept began as early as 1954, spreading state by state, community by community. The actual structure in each community is unique, although the basic mission remains the same: to deliver healthy meals to the homebound who are unable to afford or prepare meals for themselves.
In larger, metropolitan areas, the Meals on Wheels organization may be combined under the umbrella of a central kitchen/area foodbank/emergency feeding program. In other areas, the Meals on Wheels organization may be an integral part of the senior center. In still other localities, the organization might operate independently, but in cooperation and close collaboration with complimenting services.
Meals on Wheels America
Nationally, in 2019, Meals on Wheels provided approximately 220 million meals to 2.4 million Americans. Meals on Wheels America (MOWA) is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. MOWA is the oldest and largest organization in the United States representing those who provide meal services to seniors in need, specifically those at risk of or experiencing hunger. MOWA is a non-profit organization working toward the social, physical, nutritional, and economic betterment of vulnerable Americans by providing the tools and information its programs need to make a difference in the lives of others.
In Lynchburg, we operate independently of other organizations, but we have a clear understanding of the value of collaborating with our partner services and reducing duplication of service wherever possible.
To find a program outside of our Greater Lynchburg service area, visit Meals on Wheels America.