AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) – Meals on Wheels in Aiken County is facing another funding shortfall — the second one in just six months.
Now he program is asking for the community’s help again to make sure no senior goes hungry.
Volunteers at Aiken’s Meals on Wheels say every plate counts. For many, lunch at Aiken Senior Life Services is more than a meal — it’s a lifeline.
Aiken resident, Annie Cooks, spoke with NewsChannel 6, ““I’m a widow, and sometimes it gets lonely. Coming here, I don’t have to cook, and I get to sit down, talk to people, and feel connected.”
But Meals on Wheels — which delivers those same meals to people stuck at home — is facing another funding crisis.
Right now, demand is so high that 200 seniors are waiting for service.
“Our community was able to raise approximately $50,000, which allowed us to finish out the fiscal year and keep that Meals on Wheels program going,” said Aimee Hanna who is the Executive Director of Aiken Senior Life Services.
A new three-month contract started in July — and by mid-August, the money was nearly gone.
“For $50, you can feed a senior a hot meal Monday through Friday or a hundred dollars for two weeks and so on. And already the community has come to our aid. Many people have sent in checks to our agency,” Amiee reminded.
The program also got a $38,000 boost from the state. The money expected to stretch through September 30th. But demand continues to grow, especially in North Augusta, where 41 percent of meals are delivered.
Betty Graham also lives in Aiken. “A lot of old people need those meals, and when somebody brings it, that might be the only face they see all day.”
“North Augusta is our newest meal site. That meal site is open Monday, Wednesday, Fridays only. The others are five days a week. I’d love to grow it so that more people come to that program and can participate,” said Aimee
Hanna shared the story of one man living without electricity for months. The group rallied — finding him appliances, food, and community support.
“It shows how vital this organization is because, our connection with people in our community who want to volunteer, who have the means to volunteer, and we have a population base that is in need, marrying the two of them together. And you have magic.”
The need is expected to grow even more.
By 2030, one in three people in Aiken County will be 60 or older.
If you would like to help, click here.
