Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County is proud to announce its 50th anniversary in 2025, commemorating five decades of delivering compassion, nutrition and independence to their community. Established in April 1975 by Mary Bray and Reverend David Garrigus of Christ United Methodist Church in Westfield, the program has grown from serving a single recipient to providing nearly 70,000 meals annually to over 160 clients across 19 daily routes, with an additional eight on Fridays.
From its humble beginnings as a community service project, Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County has become a cornerstone of support for elderly as well as those homebound with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses. Each meal is crafted in state-approved healthcare facilities, under the supervision of a registered dietitian to meet the unique dietary needs of recipients. The mission remains steadfast: to reduce hunger, improve health and promote independence, enabling clients to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
Throughout 2025, the organization will celebrate its golden anniversary with a variety of events and initiatives shining a spotlight on its remarkable history and future vision.
50 for Fifty: Planting a Seed for the Future
To honor this milestone and ensure Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County can continue its vital services for another 50 years, the organization is launching the “50 for Fifty” fundraising campaign. The goal is to inspire 50 individuals, organizations or civic groups to donate $1,000 each, helping to raise $50,000 to sustain and expand meal delivery services.
In 1975, two meals cost just $15 per week, and 4,000 meals were delivered in the program’s first year. Today, the cost of providing nearly 70,000 meals annually has risen to $350,000. This fundraising initiative will help bridge the gap, ensuring that no one in need is left behind.
In addition to “planting a seed for the future,” participants in the “50 for Fifty” campaign will be recognized throughout the anniversary year, including placement on an online donor wall on the Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County website.
Join the Celebration
Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County receives no state or federal funding and relies entirely on community grants, fundraising and generous individual support. As the organization looks to the next 50 years, your contribution can make a lasting impact.
To learn more about or donate to the “50 for Fifty” campaign, visit https://mealsonwheelshc.org/aboutus/fifty or call (317) 776-7159. Help us continue driving compassion and delivering hope one meal at a time.