As food insecurity among older adults continues to rise, Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services (HCS) is joining Meals on Wheels programs across the country this March for March for Meals to raise awareness, inspire action, and ensure seniors in Cheshire County have access to nutritious meals and vital daily wellness checks.
Over the next year, Meals on Wheels at HCS is expected to deliver 92,000 meals to older homebound residents and individuals with disabilities. Meals on Wheels at HCS directly impacts quality of life for older and disabled residents of Cheshire County, helping to maintain their nutritional health, safety and independence, preventing or delaying institutionalization. For caregivers, it provides peace of mind knowing that there will be a daily safety check for their loved one.
During March for Meals, Meals on Wheels at HCS depends on the support of the community. $10 provides one meal for a homebound senior. $50 will provide meals for one week, and $100 for a two weeks.
Donations can be made on the HCS website HCSservices.org/give/march-for-meals or contributions can be sent to HCS, 312 Marlboro Street
Keene, NH 03431.
In a December 2025 survey to Meals on Wheels at HCS participants, 65% reported that Meals on Wheels is their primary source of nutrition, with 72% living below the 150% of the federal poverty level, and 68% reporting having no family available to help with food access With these percentages increasing year over year, we are witnessing a growing level of vulnerability amongst our older adult population.
“I don’t know what I would do without Meals on Wheels. I’m 87 and they provide my main source of nutrition. The driver is like family to me—they talk to me and check on me. Thank you!”
– Meals on Wheels at HCS recipient
“Beyond a nutritious meal, we are continuing to connect participants with additional community resources,” said Katie Hart, Director of Operations at HCS. “Whether its healthcare, benefits, housing support or additional nutrition assistance, our coordinated approach helps stabilize our neighbors before they reach a crisis point.”
Meals on Wheels in Cheshire county is sponsored by Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services. HCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing comprehensive home healthcare, hospice, and community-based services to over 2,000 individuals daily across 52 southwestern New Hampshire communities. HCS is Medicare-certified and licensed by the State of New Hampshire.
