Alexandria, VA – The month of March is traditionally a welcome sight as Spring is on its way. For Senior Services of Alexandria, March is the month when we recognize the vital contribution that Meals on Wheels makes in older adults’ lives by participating in the annual March for Meals Campaign. Sponsored by Meals on Wheels America, this year marks the 19th annual March for Meals. It has never been more important to raise awareness of the growing number of older Americans who face hunger and isolation. These severe problems have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The national March for Meals campaign is an annual month-long event designed to generate public awareness about these issues and celebrate the invaluable services provided by senior nutrition programs. Senior Services of Alexandria, in partnership with the City’s Aging and Adult Services Division, has worked tirelessly to ensure that homebound older adults continue to receive Meals on Wheels 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
We haven’t missed a beat since the pandemic began. When the City decided to provide frozen meal deliveries twice a week to seniors who find grocery shopping and leaving home difficult during the pandemic, SSA stepped up and made it happen! Every week, SSA volunteers deliver more than 2,500 meals to residents around the city.
To bring further awareness about senior hunger and thank our volunteers and everyone who makes the Meals on Wheels program possible, SSA will highlight the program in several ways this month. By proclamation, Mayor Justin Wilson will declare that March is “March for Meals” month and recognize volunteers’ work throughout the month.
Traditionally during Champions Week, city and community leaders deliver Meals on Wheels. This year, they will participate virtually on social media with short videos on the importance of senior nutrition and the City of Alexandria’s commitment to continue the Meals on Wheels program, especially during the pandemic.
We hope all of you will think about Meals on Wheels and the older adults in your lives and support the program in any way you are able. For information about March for Meals and how you can support the program, go to www.seniorservicesalex.org.
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