OPINION

Soapbox: Meals on Wheels thanks PVH for partnership

Cathy Sandoval

While most people are familiar with the concept of Meals on Wheels in general, what many don't know is that each program is run independently, under the loose guidance of the National Meals on Wheels Association.

As such, each program offers a unique set of services and meal offerings. Meals on Wheels for Fort Collins is unique in that we deliver hot meals (never frozen) five days a week, all holidays included. Registered dietitians ensure that each meal contains a healthy balance of protein and carbohydrates, along with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, rounded out with a freshly prepared dessert. In addition to these "regular" meals, we also offer meals suitable for specialized diets — not something that most MOW programs can offer. Special diets include vegetarian, dental soft and/or pureed (for those with dental issues), renal sensitive (for those with kidney problems) and a large portion option (for those who need extra calories). Every meal, regardless of type, is low in sodium, fat and sugar, meeting one-third the daily USDA standards for older adults, including diabetics.

This year, Meals on Wheels for Fort Collins will deliver more than 40,000 specialized meals to nearly 500 home-bound individuals spread across the Fort Collins area, utilizing 170 dedicated volunteers who give over 16,000 hours of service. It is not an overstatement to say that our ability to accomplish all this is due almost entirely to our long-standing partnership with Poudre Valley Hospital. Since 1975, PVH has recognized the value of the service we provide, literally opening their kitchen to help us fulfill our essential mission. The capacity at PVH's kitchen, along with their outstanding team of cooks and nutritionists, is what has enabled us to steadily grow and meet ever increasing demand.

Not only does PVH provide kitchen space, they also provide raw materials, staff to prepare the meals, parking spots for our volunteers, space within the hospital for packing of delivery bags and even office space for our small staff. All combined, PVH contributes about a third of our annual operational budget, enabling us to offer very low cost services to an ever growing population in need. Food insecurity among the elderly and home-bound is ever-growing problem that we, along with our partners at PVH, work very hard to address.

There is no way to overstate our gratitude for PVH's contribution to our mission. As a nonprofit professional with 15 years of experience, I fully understand the value of community partnerships. But never in my career have I encountered such sustained and significant support like PVH shows Meals on Wheel. University of Colorado Health's Poudre Valley Hospital is a tremendous example of what corporate community involvement can and should be.

On behalf of my staff and board of directors, our dedicated volunteers, and most of all, our clients, thank you.

For more information about Meals on Wheels for Fort Collins, including how to volunteer or donate, please visit www.fcmow.org or call 970-484-6325.

Cathy Sandoval is executive director of Meals on Wheels for Fort Collins.