Our Stories

THE LATEST FROM MEALS ON WHEELS OF SOUTHWEST OH & NORTHERN KY

Our mission is to promote the independence of seniors by providing essential services that enable them to stay in the comfort of their own homes.

Each of the seniors we serve has a story to share, and we reflect those stories in our blog. Likewise, we keep you updated on developments from our organization as we strive every day to fulfill our mission.

2024 ANNUAL REPORT

LATEST BLOG POSTS

SUMMER CRISIS PROGRAM 2025

The Ohio Department of Development and Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky are once again offering assistance to help Ohio’s families stay cool during the hot summer months. From July 1 through Sept. 30, income-eligible Ohioans can receive assistance in paying their electric bill, purchasing an air conditioner or fan, or making repairs to their central air conditioning unit through the Ohio Department of Development’s Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program (HEAP).

STAYING CONNECTED: HOW THE FRIENDLY CALLERS CLUB IS TACKLING SENIORS' LONELINESS

Providing solutions that reduce the negative impacts of loneliness and social isolation is integral to the wraparound, essential services we provide. Sometimes, it starts simply with a phone call. Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY launched the Friendly Callers Club in early 2024. It is a social connection program in which a volunteer caller is trained and matched with a homebound senior to engage in weekly phone calls and provide supportive conversation for older adults.

COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS: SHAPING OUR REGION'S FUTURE

Meals on Wheels is partnering with ThriveTogether to host a series of important community conversations about climate action and community resilience.

We invite all older adults (age 50 and over) to join us to share your concerns, ideas and hopes for the environment and future generations. No experience required! We want to hear every voice regardless of background. You do not need to have advocacy experience or existing knowledge on climate to be a part of this conversation.

AGING WELL TOGETHER

Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Health and Retirement Expo, happening on Friday, June 13, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center. Whether you're preparing for retirement or are already enjoying it, this event is your one-stop destination for everything related to health, finance, and lifestyle in your golden years.

Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY is proud to be a sponsor of this event alongside prominent regional partners and organizations.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: FINDING GEMS WITH CINDY BROWNE

Cindy first joined our community in 2019 as a member of 55 North. Newly retired and searching for a new “go-to” place, she was initially hesitant about joining a seniors' group. However, she soon realized it was time to embrace this new chapter of her life. She got to know the other members and found them to be “wonderful people.” She reflected, “It was my first group like that in retirement, of older people, and I found it to be a good component to my life.”

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: LIFELONG LEARNING WITH LAUREL TINSLEY

Her creativity extends beyond the tangible—Laurel has even dabbled in digital art, creating NFTs. When I asked how she got into that, she casually said, "I taught myself. I love learning. I once heard a quote that says, ‘Once you stop learning, you’re dead.’ And I live by that." It’s clear she means it. During our chat, a few times I used a word she wasn’t familiar with, and she would pause, ask for its meaning, and then look it up on her phone. Her curiosity is infectious.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: LIVING THE MIRACLE WITH DONNA KINNEY

“I was born in the backseat of the car, 80 years ago…on Valentine’s Day.” If you have met Donna Kinney more than once, chances are you have heard her share this origin story. It's one of the first things she tells people, and it's clear it holds a deep significance for her. Curious, I asked, “Donna, why is this such an important part of your story?” Her answer unfolded a tale of resilience and drama.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: FOR THE LOVE OF PEOPLE WITH LAVINIA BROWN

“My story is complete. The reason it’s complete is because I’m doing everything I enjoy. I love the painting class. I loved the trip to the museum—getting a chance to learn about the art. I hadn’t been to the museum in a long time. These are all things I may never have done otherwise. I never thought I’d have the chance to get out and socialize with people, to understand people and to care for people.”