HOUSTON (August 12, 2021) – In spring 2021, Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston/dba Meals on Wheels Galveston County purchased a building at 216 Byrd Street in La Marque in order to expand its operations in the region. Interfaith Ministries is the largest Meals on Wheels provider in Texas and began serving Galveston County in 2017.
Galveston County has a growing need for home-delivered meals. In only three years, Meals on Wheels Galveston County has seen 147% growth in the number of homebound seniors it serves! Currently, the program provides meals and more to 791 unduplicated seniors in Galveston County. Each senior receives daily lunch, a supply of shelf-stable food to be used during hurricane season and winter weather, and comprehensive case management. Seniors with the highest need may also receive breakfast bags and weekend meals. Moreover, seniors with pets may enroll in the Animeals program to receive pet food.
Meals on Wheels Galveston County began serving Galveston County with the help and support of Galveston County’s Department of Parks and Recreation and has been operating in loaned space in the Wayne Johnson Community Center. The La Marque building gives the program room to grow. The building will need extensive renovation, which is made possible thanks to community support with the lead gift coming from The Brown Foundation, Inc. and architectural services donated by PBK.
“The finished building will provide space for our staff, volunteers, visitors, and will allow for drive-through pick-up of meals by our drivers for delivery,” explains Emily K. Watkins, Chair of the Meals on Wheels Galveston County Advisory Council.
Over 93% of seniors served by Meals on Wheels Galveston County report that the program maintains or improves their health and helps them remain independent.