Meals on Wheels People Modifies Service Model

Meals on Wheels People continues to follow the guidance of Centers for Disease Control, the Oregon Health Authority, and the Washington State Department of Health in response to the COVID-19 crisis. They have suspended meal service at all dining centers in Clark, Multnomah and Washington counties. As the buildings from which they operate are beginning to close, to-go meal service will be unavailable beginning Tuesday, March 17, with the exception of the downtown location at 1032 SW Main, which will remain open for to-go meals from 10 a.m. to noon this week for people who regularly access that site. 

Meals on Wheels service will continue to serve homebound elderly; however, their delivery model has changed. To limit contact between volunteers and homebound participants, meal delivery will be limited to three days per week rather than five. They have instituted a “no contact” meal delivery system and instructed volunteers to keep a distance of at least six feet from those who are receiving meals. 

“We serve a frail and vulnerable population and we want to ensure that they remain safe, but still receive the food that is so vital for their health,” said Meals on Wheels People CEO Suzanne Washington. “That is only possible with the support of the hundreds of volunteers we rely on daily to deliver meals. While many of our volunteers continue to deliver, many are uncomfortable doing so and have canceled. Anyone interested in volunteering should visit our website here.” 

Due to the drastic change in its service delivery model, Meals on Wheels People is incurring costs that are unprecedented. Donations are encouraged to allow us to continue to provide food and wellness checks for homebound elderly. Donations can be made here. 

For up-to-date information on what is happening at Meals on Wheels People during this health emergency, call our COVID-19 Hotline at 503.953.8158. 

How can you help? 

In order for Meals on Wheels to continue providing service to the most vulnerable population through these difficult times, they are in desperate need of these items: 

• Hand sanitizer 
• Anti-bacterial wipes 
• Plastic gloves 
• Handled bags (plastic or paper) we can use to package meals 

If you are able to donate any of these items, please bring them to the Central Kitchen at 7710 SW 31st Avenue in Portland. 

For additional information about the coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control, the Oregon Health Authority or the World Health Organization.