You may have heard of the meals on wheels program. It is a wide spread program that has been adopted in various states and countries. The name of the program is popular however; very few people actually understand what it is all about. If you know an elderly person and are considering the meals on wheels program for the person you should find out more about the program before signing them up.
The meals on wheels program is a federal program. The main aim of the program is to deliver well balanced cooked meals to senior citizens, disabled members of the community and other members of the community that are vulnerable or at risk. These members of society that are assisted by the program are unable to prepare their own meals for one reason or the other.
The food delivered by these services is balanced. It is prepared in commercial kitchens by volunteers. A team of volunteers delivers the meals to the vulnerable members of the community. Each meal that is delivered is thought to make up for at least one third of the nutritional needs of those receiving it.
If you are planning to have an elderly person signed up to the meals on wheels program, you may be wondering just what type of meals to expect. There are federal guidelines that govern the preparation of meals for senior citizens. A meal for a senior citizen should include a minimum of 3 ounces of meat, one serving of dairy, bread, dessert, 2 portions of vegetables and fruits and margarine or butter (a teaspoon).
The meals can therefore vary based on these guidelines. A meal may include a sandwich with barbecued pork or a meat casserole or dinner rolls. The meals vary enough to ensure that the recipients do not get bored of the food being provided. However, the guidelines set by the federal government must be adhered to in the preparation of each meal.
The meals on wheels program is supported by the government, charities and private donors. Those receiving the meals and are on low or no income will be offered the meals for free. Those who can afford to give something may be asked to make a donation to the program. This will help to defer the costs of the program and help it serve more people. If you can afford it therefore, you should give as much as you can. Many agencies running the program will recommend a donation of about $3 for each meal.
Unfortunately, meals cannot always be delivered daily. However, larger organizations try to deliver the meals at least twice a day for 5 days in the week.
