SpringForwardMN

South Minneapolis Meals on Wheels (SMMOW) is a ministry of 15 local churches. We have been delivering hot, nutritious, noontime meals to elderly or disabled residents of our community for over 40 years. Our clients have difficulty cooking for themselves and/or shopping for groceries.

Approximately half of our clients pay for their own meals. The other half have their meals paid for by public assistance or insurance. The money SMMOW receives in payment for client meals does not cover our operating costs, which include employee salaries, insurance, and equipment and supplies. The drivers who bring meals to our clients are all volunteers. This past year we had additional COVID-related costs, such as gloves, masks, sanitizer, and plastic bags.

Over the last four years, the average difference between the cost of providing meals and income was approximately $12,500. Last year it was $14,400. We are reluctant to raise the cost of meals for our private-pay clients, many of whom live on a fixed income and struggle to make ends meet. Thus, SMMOW is constantly seeking charitable donations from churches, community organizations, and individuals to make our ends meet. 

We are thankful for the opportunity GIVE MN provides to reach out to potential donors.