Anyone residing in our service area that is in need of help preparing a meal for themselves is eligible for meal service, regardless of age, health or financial status.
How much does it cost?
With the help of our volunteers and donors, we attempt to make our meals affordable for everyone. Our meal plan is priced at $10 per day for two meals and a beverage. (Rates as of 2/1/2023)
Adults 60 and over may be eligible for a Wellness in Nutrition grant program through the County. Coverage through this program depends on meeting eligibility requirements and available grant funding*. These clients have the opportunity to make a voluntary contribution to help defray the cost of meals. Any contribution is gratefully accepted; no client is turned away due to an inability or unwillingness to contribute.
We also accept payment from most managed long term care plans, if service is pre-authorized by the insurance plan.
*These meals are funded in part by grants from the Onondaga County Office of Aging, New York State Office for Aging and the Administration on Aging/Administration for Community Living.
Can meals take in to account special dietary considerations?
Yes. Special meals are available to meet the specific needs of diabetics, renal patients and those requiring puree foods. Please notify us if you have a food allergy.
How and when are meals delivered?
Meals are delivered Monday thru Friday between 11 AM- 1PM by a volunteer driver.
What if I don't want meal service every day?
Every day service is not required. We are flexible to meet your needs and can develop a delivery schedule to match.
What happens if I'm not home during delivery?
Due to health regulations, meals can not be left at the door. If clients know they will not be home, they should call the office to skip a delivery or discuss alternative arrangements. An attempt will be made to call the recipient or a designated contact by phone, if we can not leave the meal with client. We may need to do a 911 wellness check if are unable to reach the recipient or their emergency contact
Can I get meals on weekends and holidays?
Yes, weekend frozen meals are available for delivery on Friday or in advance of a holiday.
Do you ever close?
We observe the following holidays:
New Year’s Day
Memorial Day
July 4th
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
If requested, frozen meals are available for delivery before a holiday.
For inclement weather or other emergencies: a “blizzard box” with shelf stable food items is provided to clients prior to the winter season for use in case of unexpected closures. If deliveries are cancelled, clients will receive an outbound phone call explaining the closure. We will also post closing information on local media and TV stations. We do NOT follow school closings and are independent of other agencies, please look specifically for Meals on Wheels of Eastern Onondaga County in a closings announcement.
Do I have any menu choices?
Yes. We have a four-week menu with a choice of 2 entrees available each day. These menus are seasonally rotated, Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter.
How soon can service start?
Usually, service can start within one business day after registering.
I know someone in need of meal service; do you accept referrals?
Yes! We will call any referral with adequate contact information.
