Athens Community Council on Aging Celebrates March for Meals, Launches ''End the Wait'' Campaign and Community Dining Program

This March, the Athens Community Council on Aging (ACCA) is joining Meals on Wheels providers across the country to celebrate March for Meals, a national campaign that highlights the vital role Meals on Wheels plays in supporting older adults.

Each year, March for Meals brings attention to the importance of delivering more than just a meal. Through Meals on Wheels, ACCA provides nutrition, safety checks, and meaningful connection to older neighbors who are homebound and at risk of isolation.
“Meals on Wheels is often the difference between a senior being able to remain safely at home or facing much more difficult circumstances,” said Eve Anthony, President and CEO of ACCA. “It’s not just about food—it’s about dignity, independence, and knowing someone cares.”

 

ACCA’s Meals on Wheels program continues to serve hundreds of older adults in Athens, while demand for services remains high. Currently, 14 of our older neighbors in the Athens community are waiting for meals, underscoring the ongoing need for community support.

Community Leaders Join “Ride-Alongs” to Experience Meals on Wheels Impact
As part of the March for Meals celebration, ACCA is inviting local leaders and supporters to participate in Meals on Wheels ride-alongs, offering a firsthand look at the impact of the program.
On March 24th, Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz and Mayor Dodd Ferrell of Winterville will join ACCA staff and volunteers to deliver meals and connect with seniors in the community.
“These ride-alongs are powerful,” said Anthony. “They give our leaders and supporters a chance to see the impact up close—to meet the individuals we serve and understand why this work matters so much.”

Introducing Community Dining: Expanding Access and Connection
This month, ACCA is also launching a refreshed Community Dining Program, transitioning from a traditional congregate meal setting to a restaurant-based dining experience through partnerships with local restaurants, including La Parilla, Em’s Kitchen, and Strickland’s Restaurant.

The new model will provide older adults with:

• Greater flexibility in where and when they dine
• Opportunities to connect in welcoming community spaces
• Continued access to nutritious meals

“We’re proud to be part of a community that takes care of its neighbors,” said Alonso Haro, General Manager, La Parilla Mexican Restaurant. “Working with ACCA allows us to help create a welcoming place where seniors can enjoy a meal, connect with others, and feel like part of the community.”

Looking Ahead: “End the Wait” Campaign Launches April 6th
As ACCA celebrates March for Meals and expands its community dining efforts, the organization is also preparing to launch its “End the Wait” campaign on April 6th.

The campaign will aim to raise $30,000 to help eliminate the Meals on Wheels waiting list and ensure that every senior in need can receive meals without delay.

“No senior should have to wait for something as basic as a meal,” Anthony said. “This campaign is about our community coming together to make sure we can reach every older neighbor who needs us.”

How to Get Involved
Community members interested in supporting Meals on Wheels, participating in a ride-along, or learning more about ACCA’s programs can visit https://www.accaging.org/.
  About the Athens Community Council on Aging
Serving Northeast and East Georgia, the Athens Community Council on Aging (ACCA) is a non-profit providing a comprehensive resource of expertise and opportunities for adults and families who need and desire the essentials to age and live well. We do this by offering programs and services that address basic needs, such as food and transportation, and personal fulfillment gained through building relationships, expanding knowledge, and making meaningful contributions to the community. With more than 50 years of experience, ACCA helps people navigate – and celebrate – life’s second half, positively impacting their health and well-being, and making their communities an even better place to live. For more information, please visit www.accaging.org.