Programs & Services - Stretching our $$$
MOW-ABC understands that Buncombe County seniors need more than just food to help them remain independent. Over time, the agency has developed a variety of cost-effective programs and services that help address some of our senior's most basic needs and contribute to their quality of life.
Pet Food Program
In conjunction with local pet stores, veterinarian offices, schools and scout troops, MOW-ABC collects pet food from throughout the community to provide to low income seniors who might otherwise share their lunch with their two/four-legged friends. Financial contributions to the program have provided low-to-no cost spay/neuter programs and veterinary assistance to seniors with sick pets. (DONATION-BASED)
Ensure Program
Due to advanced age and health, nearly 15% of MOW-ABC clients need nutritional supplements in addition to their regular meals. A fixed income and limited access to shopping prevents these seniors from obtaining a regular supply of this critical supplement. Through collaboration with area healthcare providers, MOW-ABC is able to provide Ensure nutritional supplement to these frail elderly clients. (DONATION / COLLABORATIVE EFFORT)
Snow Box Program
Winter weather is a fact of life here in the mountains. Ever wonder what happens to all those hungry seniors when Meals On Wheels is forced to close due to snow/ice? Each December before winter weather sets in, snow boxes containing an ample supply of canned and ready-to-eat meals and snacks are distributed to each one of MOW's 500+ recipients. That way, whenever ice and snow make it too hazardous to drive, MOW staff and volunteers can remain safe in their homes with the knowledge that our elderly clients have something to eat.
(GRANTS/GENERAL BUDGET)
Community Connections Program
Many MOW-ABC clients survive on a fixed income and live in older homes or trailers that are in desperate need of repair. Over the years, MOW-ABC staff have established solid working relationships with individuals and volunteer teams from local churches, civic groups and service organizations to help facilitate repairs to the client's homes at little or no cost.
(COLLABORATIVE EFFORT)
Santa for Seniors Program
The annual Santa For Seniors program is the highlight of our holiday season! It's a special time when the citizens of Asheville and Buncombe Co. come together to make sure that no one (no matter how old) is forgotten at Christmas. How much fun can you pack into a shoebox?
(DONATION-BASED)
Birthday Flowers
Thanks to Gudgers Flowers every Meals On Wheels senior receives a lovely vase with flowers to celebrate their birthday. It's a special touch that brightens their special day and means so much to our clients!
Other services
MOW-ABC works with local social service providers and non-profit groups to provide our clients with the answers and resources they need to remain independent such as access to community medical equipment closets, free/low-cost legal assistance, tax-preparation and information on issues that affect their lives. (COLLABORATIVE EFFORT)
MOW-ABC operates Monday thru Friday with a 10-member staff and a network of over 300 volunteers. Meal delivery is available to Buncombe County seniors age 60 and older who are homebound, without regard to race, religion, national origin, sex, handicap or ability to pay.
Operating Support and Donations
Approximately 85% of our operating support comes through private donations from individuals, businesses and foundations, as well as annual fundraising events such as the Wheel Ride for Food bike event and Plate Expectations auction. MOW-ABC receives 15% of its funding comes through local county and state agencies.
