Meals on Wheels says deliveries surged to roughly 725,000 meals last year; new Seaside kitchen planned

Christine Wingi of Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula told Monterey County’s news briefing that the nonprofit’s meal-delivery work has expanded sharply since 2020. “Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula empowers seniors, adults with disabilities, veterans, and underserved populations to remain independent by nourishing their bodies, minds, and spirits,” she said, and reported that deliveries rose from about 250,000 meals a year in 2020 to roughly 725,000 last year.

The increase, Wingi said, reflects both higher demand and outreach into neighborhoods the program had not previously served. She said the organization relies on a rotating pool of roughly 300–400 volunteers who help prepare, bag and deliver meals, and that delivery visits often double as wellness checks: “it’s a meal but it’s also a wellness check,” she said, noting drivers sometimes find seniors who have fallen or need emergency help.

County officials and Wingi framed the program as a partner in local food security and elder supports. Wingi said Meals on Wheels operates nine group dining sites across Monterey County and that Seaside’s programmatic offerings have expanded. She announced a new kitchen in Seaside intended to increase capacity and support further program growth.

During a brief question-and-answer period, the moderator asked how people find the service and who is eligible. Wingi said people can visit the organization’s website or call the office; she indicated typical eligibility for senior services begins at age 60. She encouraged anyone unsure about eligibility to call and ask.

Program leaders emphasized that the meals program links nutrition to social connection and safety, and that county partnership helps with outreach and event support. The organization invited interested residents and potential volunteers to contact Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula for details about services and volunteer opportunities.

Next steps: Wingi said the Seaside kitchen will come online in the near term and will allow the organization to serve more residents; she asked viewers to consult the group’s website or phone line for updates and specifics.