How to Support Meals on Wheels on Thanksgiving and Beyond

As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us reflect on the things we are grateful for, such as the comforts of home, time with family, and the warmth of shared meals. Yet for too many older adults in our community, food insecurity and loneliness put these simple comforts out of reach.

Meals on Wheels provides nutritious food, a friendly visit, and a vital connection to the community. This is why your support is especially crucial this time of year. Together, we can make sure that no one is left behind during the holidays or in the months ahead.

“It’s nice to see another face, because I don’t get company.”
-Marsha, meal recipient in Minneapolis

3 Ways to Get Involved with Meals on Wheels during the Holidays

Here are several meaningful ways you and your family can contribute to the Meals on Wheels mission of ensuring our neighbors have the nutritious meals they need and a social connection to their communities this holiday season.

Make a Financial Contribution

If your schedule is packed, donating to Meals on Wheels is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help. From Nov. 1-19, you can increase the impact of your donation during Give to the Max by unlocking a matching gift thanks to the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. Whether you make a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, every donation helps get meals to people who need them most. Your support keeps people nourished while feeling connected and cared for—right where they live.

Become a Volunteer Driver

Volunteering as a meal delivery driver is one of the most impactful ways to support your neighbors. Around Thanksgiving and through the winter, this role is especially vital. Requests for meal delivery service typically increase during the winter, and a number of regular volunteers take the winter off as they spend their time elsewhere during the colder months.

“For me, the interaction takes away a little of the loneliness that I’d be feeling.”
-Nevaida, meal recipient in Minneapolis

Stay Connected and Spread the Word

A quick post on social media can go a long way. Use your profile to share why you care about Meals on Wheels and why it’s important to the community. Talking about the importance of tackling food insecurity and isolation is a great way to invite friends to learn more or get involved. 

Here’s where you can find and follow Meals on Wheels on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Thanksgiving and Holiday-specific Meal Programs

Twin Cities Meals on Wheels programs deliver a turkey meal to regular meal recipients the week of Thanksgiving, along with extra meals for them to eat during the holiday weekend. Those who are looking for meal programs that specifically deliver or offer community meals on the holidays can check out the state of Minnesota’s list of Thanksgiving and holiday meal programs.

Make Thanksgiving Meaningful with Meals on Wheels

This Thanksgiving, you can share warmth and good food with your neighbors who need it most. Supporting Meals on Wheels is a meaningful way to celebrate the season and ensure more of our neighbors feel connected and cared for.

Get involved with Meals on Wheels in the Twin Cities today by donating or volunteering to make this holiday season a little brighter for everyone in the community.