Governor Recognizes Meals-on-Wheels for 30 Years of Service

This June Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson & Ellis Counties kicked off its 30th Anniversary celebration with activities planned for all summer long. With the announcement of this anniversary, Governor Rick Perry has recognized Meals-on-Wheels for their 30 years of service to the community.

“A 30th anniversary is truly a landmark for anyone, especially a nonprofit,” said Vinsen Faris, executive director. “We are honored that the Governor has recognized our achievements,” he added.

Meals-on-Wheels began serving a handful of Cleburne residents in 1977, and today serves 600 meals daily to two counties. In 2001, Meals-on-Wheels began serving Ellis County, making a 1,700 square mile service area. Meals-on-Wheels relies on over 500 volunteers to deliver the daily meals, and check on the homebound they serve.

Meals-on-Wheels has steadily grown over the years, but recently the need for services has dramatically increased. They are serving 30% more meals today than this time last year, that is over 20,000 additional meals over meals served in 2006. Since 1977, they have served over 2 million meals to the elderly and disabled. With the addition of these meals, Meals-on-Wheels needs additional routes, volunteers, and financial resources to continue to serve this growing population.

“Our success would not be possible without the volunteers who help deliver the meals, and the many friends who support this effort through their generous contributions and gifts,” Faris said. “We are looking forward to the future, and the next 30 years!” he concluded.