Mayor Parker Delivers Meals on Wheels

On April 23, Mayor Annise Parker delivered lunch to needy seniors across Fifth Ward.

Mayor Parker has long been an advocate for Meals on Wheels, stating that the program is “not just beneficial, but essential.”

Parker’s own grandparents relied on a congregate meals service in their later years, and she understands the importance of programs like Meals on Wheels.

“I know how important it is for that hot, nutritious meal each day, but also the interaction with somebody who knows where you’re supposed to be if you don’t answer the door and can follow up – that human contact. Groups like Meals on Wheels and Interfaith Ministries step in and provide a lifeline.”


Meals on Wheels client Mary Taylor, 80, was thrilled to meet Mayor Parker. "You're the one that's on TV all the time!"

Interfaith Ministries delivers about 4,500 meals to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels each day, and demand is growing. For the first time, Meals on Wheels has a waitlist, said IM’s CEO, Eliot Gershenson. He anticipates that the need for home meal delivery services will only increase as Baby Boomers age.

Parker took the time to chat with each of the seniors she visited, even promising Mary Taylor, 80, “We’re going to try to keep you in your home as long as possible.”

Parker finds the fact that many seniors in Houston may not know where their next meal is coming from inexcusable.

“We live the richest country in the history of the earth, and there is plenty of food in America for everybody who needs food. We don’t always distribute it efficiently, and for various reasons – age, disability, lack of resources – people may not be able to access the food that we have. Sometimes they need a helping hand, and that’s what we’re doing.”


Mayor Parker delivers a meal to Carrie Smith, amputee and Meals on Wheels client.

IM appreciates Mayor Parker’s staunch support for Meals on Wheels; if you’re interested in helping alleviate senior hunger and isolation in our area, click here.