Meet Cheryl
An activist, trailblazer, and proud mom living with dignity.
One day Home Delivered Meals might come in handy for you or someone you love.
Living on Her Terms
Thanks to you, Cheryl is still living life on her terms with dignity because of meals that nourish her and a community that cares.
Cheryl has been an amputee since she was 15 years old, and she hasn’t let that stop her. She’s also an activist, a trailblazer, a proud mom and grandma, and a giver. She raised her son while finishing her degree at Aquinas College, helped lead her neighborhood as a community organizer, and became the first woman of color in Human Resources at the Amway Grand Plaza when its tower opened. When chronic back pain, along with knee and shoulder replacements, made cooking painful, it was your support that stepped in.
“If it weren’t for Meals on Wheels, I’d be eating TV dinners,” Cheryl says. “It saves my back not having to get up and prepare food.”
Food is Connection
Because of you, Cheryl has nutritious, delicious meals that are easy to prepare—something that matters deeply when mobility and income are limited, and you live alone. She especially loves the variety: pastas, Mexican dishes, vegetables, bananas, and other fresh fruit. “The asparagus is very good,” she adds with a smile.
You also make sure Cheryl gets something just as important as food—connection. “The drivers are all amazing,” she says. “They call me Mama or Miss Cheryl. They’re funny, kind, and even bring treats for my dogs.”
Home Delivered Meals Offers Options for Seniors
Our remarkable team at Meals on Wheels Western Michigan makes a huge difference for seniors like Cheryl. On our busiest day this week, we’ll deliver meals to more than 700 seniors who otherwise may not have a healthy meal. We’ll nourish more than 6,000 people this year, providing fresh, nutritious options to help them thrive in their golden years. Our menu includes classic offerings like Salisbury Steak and Meatloaf as well as options for variety like Sweet & Sour Chicken or Ginger Soy Cod and each meal provides a nutritionally balanced eating experience without sacrificing flavor. Cheryl loves the pasta with meat sauce and enjoys having options to choose from. With new menu items being added and with fan favorites that will always be there, we have something tasty for everyone.
Feeling Cared For
You are helping Cheryl protect her health, preserve her dignity, and feel cared for—something she’s spent her whole life offering to others. “I get nervous about my Social Security check and housing,” she admits. “But this program helps. If you can afford to give—even just a little—it makes a difference. One day it might come in handy for you or someone you love.”
Because of you, Cheryl feels seen, supported, and surrounded by kindness. Thank you for being there for her and for so many others who need a helping hand as they slow down and grow older.
She wants people to know that, “If you can afford to give—even just a little—it makes a difference.”
Not in our service area for Home Delivered Meals Program? That’s ok! Try finding similar services through the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan; they can get you access in your area. If you have any questions about Home Delivered Meals or any other services we offer, call us at (616) 459-3111.
Your donations and volunteer efforts help amazing local seniors like Cheryl access easy-to-heat meals, community, and connection.
