Providing sources of useful information and expertise to educate our community and connect people in need to available resources.
This is where Meals on Wheels Erie steps in. Founded on principles of nutrition, independence, and community engagement, the organization’ s mission is twofold: to deliver freshly prepared, well-balanced meals directly to those in need, and to check on clients’ overall well-being. Meals are made daily to meet dietary guidelines, accommodate health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, and offer comforting variety. Doorstep delivery ensures not only access to nutritious food, but also regular human connection, an oftenoverlooked necessity.
Meals on Wheels Erie currently offers five essential programs:
• Private Pay Meals: For individuals who do not qualify for subsidized programs due to income, location, or other factors. All are welcome.
• Meals for Those Under 60 and Permanently Disabled: With proof of income under $ 1,500 / month and a documented disability, eligible clients receive a ready-to-heat meal five days a week, free of charge, through a PA Department of Human Services subsidy.
• Waiver Meals: Through a partnership with UPMC Community HealthChoices, eligible Medicaid recipients can receive daily meals. UPMC CHC manages participant qualifications.
• Veterans in Need Program: This no-cost program, funded in part by the PA Veterans’ Trust Fund and local donations, serves honorably discharged veterans who are over age 60 or permanently disabled.
• Grocery Shopping & Delivery: Available to homebound and disabled individuals of any age. For a modest service fee plus the cost of groceries, volunteers will shop from the client’ s list and deliver directly inside their home.
Each meal delivery includes a ready-to-heat tray with a protein, starch, and vegetable, and a separate bag with a side, dessert, and 2 % milk or juice. Both meal delivery and grocery services are carried out by caring volunteers.
In quantifiable terms, Meals on Wheels Erie delivers over 70,000 meals annually and provides over 600 grocery shopping trips each year. These services directly alleviate hunger, reduce hospitalizations, support independent living, and help clients retain their dignity.
Still, challenges remain. Demand is rising among seniors and low-income families, while funding and volunteer numbers fluctuate. Ongoing community involvement, whether through financial gifts or new volunteer signups, remains essential.
Meals on Wheels Erie serves as a lifeline- offering nourishment, community, and hope to those who need it most. For more information about services or volunteering, please visit mealsonwheelserie. org or call the office at 814-452-6930.
Erie County Department of Health & Erie’ s Food Policy Advisory Council
Contributed by Celeste Makay, Program Coordinator, Health Improvement and Preparedness, Erie County Department of Health
Erie County Department of Health( ECDH) partners with Erie’ s Food Policy Advisory Council( FPAC) to promote healthy communities through improving nutritious food access and providing education. In collaboration with many local farmers and gardeners, nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and community groups, FPAC supports the following programs:
Pay-What-You-Can( PWYC) Farmers Markets PWYC markets provide fresh, locally grown produce in areas of low income and low access to healthy foods. The model for these markets is:“ take what you need, pay what you can.” Seven PWYC markets operate weekly from July through early October. The PWYC team is looking for seasonal volunteers and produce donations. Learn more at builderie. org / hope / pwyc.
Locations and Schedule for 2025:
• Monday: 4-6 p. m. at 130 Meadville St, Edinboro
• Tuesday: 12-2 p. m. at 418 E 15th St, Erie
• Wednesday: 4-6 p. m. at 650 East Ave, Erie( ECAT Wayne) and 4-6 p. m. at 1330 W 8th St, Erie( Strong Vincent)
• Thursday: 4-6 p. m. at 2304 Parade St, Erie
• Friday: 12-2 p. m. at 310 E 4th St, Erie( 4th St Community Farm) and 4-6 p. m. at 571-601 State St, Erie( Perry Square)
4th Street Community Farm and Classes Located at 310 East 4th Street in Erie, this community farm helps neighbors learn how to grow, harvest, and use fresh produce. During the growing season, the farm team hosts guided volunteer workdays every 4th Saturday of the month, 10 a. m.- 2 p. m. and free community classes at the farm. All are welcome at these family-friendly events. No registration is necessary!
Learn more at groundworkerie. org / 4thstreetfarm.
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