As we head into fall, here’s how we’re adapting to rising need and funding challenges. 

Every day, more older adults across the Portland-Vancouver metro area turn to Meals on Wheels People for nutritious meals. Last year alone, we served more than 1 million meals to over 9,100 older adults — and demand is still growing. 

Meeting that need takes creativity, commitment, and a strong network of volunteers. Thanks to their dedication and the support of our community, we don’t have a waiting list — and we’re determined to keep it that way. 

At the same time, like many senior nutrition providers nationwide, we are also navigating federal funding uncertainty. The expiration of pandemic-era support and broader cutbacks to aging services — including programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and senior nutrition — create significant challenges for both older adults and the organizations that serve them 

To stay strong and sustainable, we’ve made strategic changes. One example: We consolidated two meal delivery hubs — Elm Court in downtown Portland and Hillsboro — into facilities we own. This allows us to: 

• Use resources efficiently: Reducing costs tied to leased space lets us reinvest in meals and services. 

• Plan for the long term: Consolidation helps us serve more people sustainably, even amid funding uncertainty. 

• Serve everyone without interruption: Every participant continues to receive meals and support, without interruption. 

Safety concerns downtown were one factor among many, but the consolidation decision was primarily about operational efficiency and sustainability — ensuring we can continue reaching older adults in need. 

We are adapting, and we remain deeply committed to serving our community. With the support of volunteers and community partners, we will continue to rise to the challenge — today, tomorrow, and for years to come.