Meals on Wheels: new management, expanded services

Published on February 01, 2023

Volunteer and client enjoying a smile during meal delivery

Starting Feb. 6, Meals on Wheels service in Lakewood will transition to be managed by Meals on Wheels of Long Beach.

There will be no interruption in service for Lakewood’s existing clients, and it is expected that nearly all volunteers who currently support the program will continue delivering meals and a friendly visit to Lakewood residents.

Lakewood Meals on Wheels has been a small non-profit organization, with traditionally just one paid staff person and limited resources, which made it difficult to sustain financially. Meals on Wheels of Long Beach (MOWLB) is a larger entity with ten paid staff members, an excellent reputation for service, and a more secure, long-term financial future, supported by a $1.5 million annual budget.

MOWLB provides service not just to the residents of Long Beach but also to the residents of Signal Hill and Leisure World of Seal Beach...and now, to Lakewood.

MOWLB provides home-delivered, nutritionally balanced and freshly prepared meals for individuals who are homebound and unable to shop and cook for themselves. All meals are subsidized by MOWLB through donor support. The daily fee is $9.75. Clients receive a hot dinner, cold lunch, dessert and beverage—all made fresh that morning and ready to eat. For those who cannot afford the fee, financial assistance is available.

While the majority of Meals on Wheels clients are elderly, services are available regardless of age. Referrals are taken from hospital staff, social workers, religious leaders, other clients, family or friends.

Visit the Meals on Wheels page to learn more about the services offered.