Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach (MOWLB) took over Lakewood Meals on Wheels service in February 2023.
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach provides service not just to the residents of Long Beach and Lakewood, but also to residents of Signal Hill and Leisure World of Seal Beach.
Additionally, MOWLB is supported by over 300 community volunteers each week who assist with meal packaging, deliveries and the “Friendly Visitor” program that is critical to clients’ well-being.
Lakewood Meals on Wheels was a small non-profit organization, with traditionally just one paid staff person and limited resources, which made it difficult to sustain financially.
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach (MOWLB) is a larger entity with ten paid staff members, an excellent reputation for service, and a more secure, long-term financial future, supported by a $1.5 million annual budget.
Services provided by MOWLB
MOWLB provides home-delivered, nutritionally balanced and freshly prepared meals for individuals who are homebound and unable to shop and cook for themselves. Clients receive a hot dinner, cold lunch, dessert and beverage—all made fresh that morning and ready to eat.
All meals are subsidized by MOWLB through donor support. The daily fee is $10.75. For those who cannot afford the fee, financial assistance is available.
While the majority of Meals on Wheels clients are elderly, services are available regardless of age. Referrals are taken from hospital staff, social workers, religious leaders, other clients, family or friends.
Because of MOWLB’s long-standing relationships and connections throughout the region, they will also be able to offer some new services to Lakewood clients.
That includes a Client Support Program which offers:
- In-home extended visits.
- In-home client assessments.
- Connections to in-home services such as house cleaning, readers and caregiving.
These additional services are possible through sustained partnerships with CSU Long Beach School of Nursing and Pathways Care Navigation Program. .
How can you get involved?
- If you or someone you know might benefit from Meals on Wheels, contact them at 562-439-5000 ext. 1 or visit their website.
- Volunteers are always welcomed. If you would like to volunteer contact MOWLB at 562-439-5000 ext. 4 to discuss your interest and availability or complete a volunteer application online.
- If you would like to donate, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/DonateMoW. All donations made through the city website will be directed specifically towards serving Lakewood residents in the program.