Meals on Wheels

Emerald Coast United Way has renewed its support of Elder Services of Okaloosa County with FY26/27 funding, allowing the senior meal delivery program to reach isolated older adults in new areas. As the need grows, so does the call for volunteers willing to give an hour a week to deliver both meals and much-needed human connection.

Mrs. S is over 90 years old and still living independently. However, she loves and relies on Meals on Wheels. "My children are all gone," she says. "I don't have anyone left." Each weekday, Mrs. S meets her Meals on Wheels drivers at the door and spends time visiting. "Everyone loves Mrs. S," says the Meals on Wheels Coordinator. "Each weekday driver says they will quit volunteering if we ever move them off of the route with Mrs. S." Volunteers do well more than they are requ

"Many homeless veterans have other issues than just homelessness," says Dawn. "When Richard went missing, I just wanted to make sure he was okay. His VA Case Manager, who was concerned as well, went to check on him.

The Meals on Wheels driver stayed with the V family until the ambulance arrived. "I did not really know that particular driver," said Mrs. V, "but he stayed with us and kept us calm until the ambulance arrived. He was a blessing to us."

Randy and Kathy L. began receiving Meals on Wheels last month.

Daughter, Melissa, first met Meals on Wheels staff about a year ago at a Health Fair held in the Crestview Community Center. Melissa is a teacher, a mother, and now, a caregiver for her mom. At the time she was overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help. The agency's North County Supervisor, Anne Spies, assured her that we could help.

The new location is less than two miles away from our operations on Hospital Drive. The church is located at 103 First Street, Fort Walton Beach 32548.