Meals on Wheels Programs & Services of Rockland, Inc.

Meals on Wheels Programs & Services of Rockland, Inc., also known as Meals on Wheels Rockland, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for aging residents in Rockland County, New York.

History

Meals on Wheels Rockland was founded in 1974 by Shelly Berger and a few friends, who recognized a need in the community. Initially, meals were prepared and delivered from Berger's basement. Today, the organization is close to delivering its 12 millionth meal.

Programs and Services

• Home Delivered Meals: Meals on Wheels Rockland provides medically tailored meals, prepared hot and fresh daily. These meals are physician-prescribed to meet specific dietary needs, including diabetic, low-sodium, low-carb, Kosher, renal, vegetarian, and vegan diets. They also offer pureed and soft foods for individuals with special requirements.
• Senior Activity Centers: The organization operates centers that serve as a "home away from home" for seniors. These centers offer activities focused on health and wellness, helping participants develop friendships and a sense of community.
• Transportation Services: Meals on Wheels Rockland provides door-to-door transportation for seniors to and from their activity centers.
• Safety Checks: Alongside meal delivery, volunteers conduct vital safety checks on clients, reporting any concerns to the organization's casework team. This ensures a high level of care and connection with seniors who may otherwise be socially isolated.
• Community Engagement: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Meals on Wheels Rockland expanded its services to include a telephone reassurance program and grocery delivery to seniors, significantly increasing its daily delivery services.

Mission

The mission of Meals on Wheels Rockland is to enhance the wellness of Rockland's older adults and their families by providing services that support their safety, independence, and health. The organization aims for every older adult in Rockland to live life to the fullest.

Community Impact

Meals on Wheels Rockland has made significant contributions to addressing food insecurity and social isolation among seniors. With a strong network of over 600 volunteers, the organization not only delivers meals but also fosters connections and friendships that are crucial for mental well-being. The safety checks provided during meal deliveries have helped prevent or mitigate emergencies involving seniors in distress.

Overall, Meals on Wheels Rockland has established itself as a vital service for Rockland County's aging population, combining nutrition with social support and community care.

[1] https://stopandshop.2givelocal.com/meals-on-wheels-rockland/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meals_on_Wheels [3] https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/docs/default-source/research/more-than-a-meal-process-expansion/coc_fullreport_december-2021.pdf?sfvrsn=ecd4b23b_2 [4] https://mowrockland.org [5] https://www.volunteernewyork.org/organization/001F000000nILo4IAG