Meals on Wheels Funding Explained

Ever wonder how Meals on Wheels providers across the country continue serving millions of seniors each year? 

The answer: a foundation of federal funding - and a community of supporters like you. 

Nearly 9 in 10 local Meals on Wheels programs receive federal support, most often through the Older Americans Act (OAA) Nutrition Program, among others. The OAA itself is a vital source of funding, covering 37% of the cost to serve more than 2 million older adults annually.  

But it’s just not enough - and the cracks are showing.

-- 1 in 3 Meals on Wheels programs has a waitlist.

-- Seniors are waiting 4 months on average for services, some as long as 2 years.

-- Rising operational costs continue to strain local budgets.

-- Only 1% of philanthropy in the U.S. goes toward aging issues.

With 13 million older adults facing hunger and 56% reporting feelings of loneliness, we are only scratching the surface of addressing the needs of America’s aging neighbors. 

It can seem very complicated, but our infographic makes it simple. Learn how funding flows, why federal dollars are essential and how you can help us End the Wait™

SEE OUR VISUAL GUIDE

Meals on Wheels continues to advocate for increased federal funding and is fighting against any disruptions or cuts to the funding that local providers across the country rely on.

Your support helps fuel this movement to ensure every senior who needs Meals on Wheels gets it — and keeps Meals on Wheels strong for the millions of seniors who need this vital, life-changing service.

-- Meals on Wheels America