Last Updated on April 17, 2023
With the growing trend of aging in place, more seniors are living alone than ever before—nearly one in four! That is great for active and able bodied individuals who are able to live their lives to the fullest. But for many, there comes a day when they are unable to care for themselves in the same way they used to.
At Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity and means to Live Abundantly in WNC. Today, we invite you to learn more about Meals on Wheels of Asheville & Buncombe County and how you can help them meet their mission.
What is MOWABC?
Did you know that one in six seniors is at risk for hunger? Since 1974, Meals on Wheels of Asheville & Buncombe County (MOWABC) has provided hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors. By assisting those who are unable to drive or have difficulty preparing meals, it allows them to live in their own homes and maintain their dignity while aging.
What services does MOWABC offer?
What began as a grassroots effort 45 years ago now includes a commercial kitchen, nine staff members, five people on the kitchen team, and more than 300 volunteers who deliver prepared food to around 500 elderly homebound residents as the largest provider of at-home meal delivery services in Western North Carolina. Meals are available to homebound people over age 60 regardless of race, religion, national origin, sex, or handicap. If you’re recovering from illness or injury, you can sign up for temporary services.
But that’s not all. MOWABC also feeds more than 50 pets belonging to our homebound senior neighbors in Buncombe County. Pets provide companionship to those living alone, and they frequently need support in addition to their owners. MOWABC’s Pet Care program helps serve that need.
How can someone support Meals on Wheels of Asheville & Buncombe County?
There are three main ways to support MOWABC’s mission to prepare and deliver a delicious, nutritionally-balanced meal to your homebound neighbors who might otherwise go hungry.
1. Refer a Senior – Do you know any homebound seniors with limited mobility and/or challenging health issues? If you’re a family member or friend of someone who has difficulty shopping for and preparing meals, contact MOWABC’s social services director.
2. Adopt a Route – MOWABC is always looking for dedicated volunteers to deliver a nutritious lunchtime meal and provide a friendly visit to homebound seniors in need. Serving more than 480 local seniors, there’s a good chance that there’s a route near your home or workplace. If you are available for 60–90 minutes a week, consider volunteering with MOWABC.
3. Make a Donation – Whether you’re a sustaining donor or purchasing pet items from their AmazonSmile Wish List, your generous gift is an investment in your own community. Every dollar you donate ensures that clients receive a meal, daily visit, and connections to valuable resources throughout the year.
Get more by giving back
Every day, Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks is impressed by our agents and staff for their involvement in strengthening community efforts through service and financial support. We encourage you to get involved, too.
Support local causes now and in the future! Give of your time and money to an organization that means something to you. Reach out to MOWABC or contact your Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks agent to learn about local nonprofits in your community.
Meals on Wheels of Asheville & Buncombe County
146 Victoria Road, Asheville
(828) 253-5286
