About Meals on Wheels Western Michigan
Vision
A community where no senior is hungry or forgotten
Mission
To provide quality nutrition services in a supportive environment to promote the health and independence of seniors
Values
Client Focused
Compassion & Empathy
Diversity & Inclusion
Outstanding Teamwork
Transparency & Honesty
Quality & Excellence
An Inclusive Environment
We believe in a community of intentional inclusion that fosters trust and belonging and embraces differences.
Our History
Elderly Nutrition Program Established
The Elderly Nutrition Program is established as part of the 1972 Older Americans Act to fight hunger and isolation. The program provides Federal funding for congregate (Dining Sites) and home delivered meals.
Meals on Wheels Western Michigan Established
Meals on Wheels Western Michigan (originally Senior Meals Program, Inc.) is established to address the nutritional needs of older adults in Kent County. The program is located on Two Fountain Place in Grand Rapids. Later in 1984, it’s incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit. MOWWM offers congregate meals (at Dining Sites) and home delivered meals. This year, it serves 975 seniors.
First Commercial Kitchen
MOWWM moves to its first commercial kitchen at 1279 Cedar Street in Grand Rapids. In the new facility, MOWWM can cook from scratch to help address the growing needs of the community’s older adults.
First Kent County Senior Millage
The first Kent County Senior Millage is passed.
Senior Pantry Program Established
The MOWWM Senior Pantry program is established. It’s one of the first shopping experience pantries in Kent County that allows seniors the dignity of choosing their food.
Move to Wilson Avenue Begins
MOWWM outgrows its old location and begins moving its administrative offices to the current building at 2900 Wilson Avenue in Grandville.
Move to Wilson Avenue Completed
MOWWM opens its new commercial kitchen and completes the move to its current location.
Choice Meal Program Launch
The Choice Meal Program launches. This program helps meet the diverse preference and dietary needs of MOWWM clients.
Expansion to Allegan County
Addition of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
MOWWM hires a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist to improve the nutrition content of meals and develop more specialized diets.
Over 7,000 Seniors Served During COVID-19
Lisa Wideman is appointed as the President and CEO of MOWWM.
The COVID-19 pandemic brings increased food insecurity.
MOWWM delivers over 625,000 meals to more than 3,000 homebound seniors. The Senior Pantry Program provides more than 1 million pounds of groceries. In all, over 7,000 seniors benefit from MOWWM’s services.
We Couldn’t Do It Without You
Our Services
