Will you chip in to support our nonprofit newsroom with a donation today?
Yes, I want to support My MLTnews!
My Neighborhood News Network has partnered with the Verdant Health Commission to profile the work of local nonprofits that advance the health of our whole community.
Thanks to Homage Senior Services, approximately 700-800 vulnerable people in Snohomish County receive a weekly Meals on Wheels (MOW) delivery of seven nutritious meals, along with produce and optional shelf-stable milk and bread.
Everett-based Homage is the county’s sole Meals on Wheels provider, and serves adults over 60 who are homebound due to illness, an incapacitating disability, or are otherwise isolated and unable to prepare a meal on their own. The meals are provided at no charge. Clients are welcome to make a voluntary donation, but will not be denied service if unable to do so.
This crucial program is one of many that Homage offers. Founded in 1974, the organization is dedicated to supporting the health, safety and independence of older adults and people living with disabilities in Snohomish County. Homage is committed to meeting the evolving needs of Snohomish County’s most vulnerable residents, and its core programs include food and nutrition services, healthcare coordination, transportation, mental health support and minor home repair.
For some clients, MOW is a temporary service to bridge the gap between post-acute care and a return to their prior level of independence. However, many rely on this important service which can help them remain in their homes and age with dignity.
Bob and Judy, who have lived in the same Lynnwood home since 1961, are such an example. A couple of years ago, both Bob and Judy began losing weight, and their doctor was concerned about their nutritional intake. Their daughters encouraged them to sign up for MOW deliveries to ensure they would have healthy meals throughout the week.
“The Meals on Wheels Program allows us flexibility,” Judy said. “The meals are easy to prepare, and the size works for us. We can put the meals in the freezer and take them out when we want them. They taste fresh and help us to get a balanced meal.”
The program was especially helpful last year when Judy was hospitalized, because Bob could prepare the meals for himself. “I’ve never been a cook, but I can work the microwave,” he said.
Not only has the program helped the couple maintain a healthier weight, but it also gives the family peace of mind to know that the couple always have easy-to-prepare, balanced meals available.
In addition, the deliveries provide healthy social contact for clients. “Meals are delivered by dedicated staff and volunteer drivers who connect with clients face-to-face and maintain consistent routes, allowing them to get to know and build trust with their clients,” said Nutrition Director Leah Hammon. “As a result, drivers are often the first to recognize and report a concern about a change in a client’s mental or physical condition.”
As part of the intake process, one of Homage’s three dietitian assessors screen clients for nutrition risk and provide nutrition education as indicated. They also identify customized meal options to meet the needs of clients with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Pureed entrees are available for individuals with chewing or swallowing difficulties and Ensure Plus is offered as a nutritional supplement for those experiencing malnutrition or unintentional weight loss.
Homage’s Registered Dietitian Erica Polney finds her role very rewarding. “The one-on-one contact with clients makes the work come alive for me. It is unique for a registered dietitian to be able to work with clients in their own home environment.”
If you or someone you know might benefit from Homage’s MOW service, there is currently no waitlist. “Whether or not a waitlist becomes necessary depends on available funding, and we monitor that on an ongoing basis,” said Grants Manager Julie Meyers.
People can apply for the program here. Individuals must meet the following criteria:
- 60 years of age or older and homebound
- unable to prepare meals, have difficulty performing activities like bathing, dressing or shopping
- lack personal adequate support.
For more information, call 425-347-1229.
Real first and last names — as well as city of residence — are required for all commenters.
This is so we can verify your identity before approving your comment.
By commenting here you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct. Please read our code at the bottom of this page before commenting.