March for Meals 2025 Is Now #SaveLunch
This March, SVCOA is participating in the 2025 Meals on Wheels #SaveLunch campaign, which evolved from March for Meals to #SaveLunch injecting new enthusiasm into our collective efforts. This shift aligns with historical significance, as March 22, 1972, marked the establishment of the Older Americans Act's national nutrition program.
Vermont's Aging Population; By The Numbers
This March, as part of our commitment to address the challenges Vermont's aging population faces, the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (SVCOA) is proud to support Meals on Wheels America's #Savelunch campaign. With 188,599 residents aged 60 and over in Vermont, representing 29.2% of the state's population, the need for community support is more pressing than ever. Notably, 10.4% of our older Vermonters experience food insecurity, and 25.1% live alone, increasing their risk of social isolation. We call on all community members to join us in this critical initiative. We are seeking volunteers to help deliver meals and provide companionship, and we invite local businesses and philanthropists to contribute resources to help us expand our vital services. Together, we can combat the issues of poverty, inadequate healthcare, and loneliness among our senior population, ensuring they have the support and dignity they deserve.
How Can You Help?
“Now is an important time for us to unite to ensure that Meals on Wheels is there for all of our senior neighbors in need,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America. “In the face of soaring demand and costs that surpass our current resources, we need to come together as communities to bridge the gaps. I encourage you to participate by donating, volunteering or speaking out for seniors throughout March to play your part. We can’t do it alone – it takes all of us to save lunch for our seniors.”
Spread the Word:
- Share our posts on social media using the hashtags #SaveLunch and #SVCOAMeals.
- Tell friends and family about the importance of Meals on Wheels and how they can support SVCOA.
- There's no better way to advocate for your local Meals on Wheels Program and the Older Vermonters we serve than by reaching out to Members of Congress and letting them know the impact the Meals on Wheels program makes firsthand in your community. Instructions, including a phone call script, can be found HERE
Volunteer:
- Join us during Meals on Wheels Champions Week, March 18th—21st. We need drivers, meal packers, and friendly visitors to help us deliver meals and smiles to older Vermonters in YOUR community. Call us at 1-800-642-5119 or email at infoandassistance@svcoa.net
Donate:
There are several ways you can donate to help us #Savelunch. Choose the option that best fits your ability and help us continue the important work of our mission empowering Vermonters to age with dignity, independence, and quality of life. You can contribute directly to SVCOA by clicking HERE or by sending a check made out to SVCOA_Meals on Wheels to 143 Maple St, Rutland VT 05701. Every dollar helps us deliver more meals to older Vermonters in need.
- Neighborly Nourisher * $1.00 - $100 Your donation will help us provide essential meals to an older Vermonter in your community.
- Community Caregiver * $100 - $300 Want to make a broader impact in your community. Consider becoming a Community Caregiver to help even more older Vermonters get nutritious meals.
- Hope Sustainer * $300 - $500 Help us ensure consistent meal delivery for older Vermonters across Southwestern Vermont
- Lifesaver Champion * $500 or more Make your generosity transformative by helping us sustain our Meals on Wheels Program for the future.
DONATE TO SVCOA MEALS ON WHEELS HERE
Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. By becoming a Neighborly Nourisher, a Community Caregiver, a Hope Sustainer, or a Lifesaver Champion, you are taking a stand against hunger and isolation in our community.
Please consider donating today to help us continue our vital work. Together, we can ensure that every older Vermonter has the support they need to age with the dignity, independence, and quality of life they deserve. Thank you for your kindness and support.
