The Duke Energy Foundation recently presented a check for $5,000 to Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County to aid in program development and capacity for meal delivery to Hamilton County’s food-insecure seniors and those unable to cook for themselves due to injury, illness or disability.
“We are extremely grateful to have a corporate partner like Duke Energy,” said Beth Gehlhausen, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County. “We continue to see a growing need for assistance within our community and are taking on new clients daily. Duke’s contribution will help us continue to have capacity to help during these uncertain times.”
During 2020, the number of clients served by Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County has increased 33 percent. Additionally, the number of clients needing assistance to pay for their meals has increased 58 percent.
“Amid COVID, we have been blessed with the grace and goodwill of the community, both time and donations,” Gehlhausen said. “In a seemingly hopeless time, our community has come together to provide hope for so many.”
Now coming up on its 46th year, the organization is able to fulfill the client requests for hot meals, sack lunches and even frozen meals thanks to the generosity of donors and dedication of staff and volunteers. Due to safety precautions, the organization was forced to cancel its largest fundraiser of the year – an annual Dancing with Our Stars event. The event traditionally generates revenue that allows for increased meal delivery during the winter months in addition to sustaining annual operations. Given this circumstance, Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County’s need for support going into 2021 is greater than ever.
“We all have a responsibility to share in the food insecurity solution, especially given these uncertain circumstances,” Gehlhausen said.
While donations of any size are appreciated, $50 provides meals for one week and $210 provides a month of meals. To donate or for more information, visit mealsonwheelshc.org/donate or call (317) 776-7159.
“We want the community to know how deeply we appreciate their help, and that we have capacity and are here to help. Individuals just need to call us or go on the website and fill out the online application,” Gehlhausen said.
About Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County
Established in 1975, Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County enhances the quality of life of homebound individuals and seniors in Hamilton County by providing nutritious meals, personal interactions and independence. Meals are prepared in state-approved healthcare facilities and designed by a certified registered dietitian under a physician’s prescribed supervision according to the client’s specific dietary needs. Nearly 200 meals are delivered daily by volunteers to enable clients to remain independently living within the community in their own homes for as long as possible. For more information on receiving services or to volunteer, contact Meals on Wheels at (317) 776-7159.
About the Duke Energy Foundation
The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. In Indiana, the Foundation provides approximately $2 million in charitable gifts to a wide variety of nonprofit groups. More information about the Foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.