CINCINNATI — One in six seniors faces the threat of hunger, according to Meals on Wheels America, and the organization works tirelessly to combat that issue.

In Ohio, the nonprofit is finding new ways to meet the growing demand and help seniors maintain their independence.

What You Need To Know

  • Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky held its second annual Meals Madness Gala on Wednesday

  • Proceeds from the gala are pumped right back into the community to serve local seniors

  • The nonprofit supports near 10,000 seniors throughout 13 counties yearly

On Wednesday, Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky held its second annual "Meals Madness Gala" in the Cintas Center at Xavier University to raise funds and awareness for its mission.

Nearly 300 donors and community partners gathered for the event, which follows a successful inaugural year in 2024. Officials said the gala is crucial for diversifying their donor base and securing ongoing funding.

“We take seniors to doctor’s appointments. We help pay bills in some cases where seniors need that. We also have a pet program, providing pet food so seniors can continue to care for their pets,” said Meals on Wheels Board of Directors Chair Mary Wagner said.

The gala featured a silent auction with items such as Cincinnati Reds memorabilia, photography sessions and travel vouchers. 

The evening also highlighted the importance of community partnerships. The 2025 Collaborative Partner of the Year award was presented to the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, in recognition of their continued collaboration with Meals on Wheels.

“We started helping out after COVID by bringing girls to Meals on Wheels, and now it’s grown into a full patch program,” said Arrianne Stirrat, Cincinnati program team leader for the Girl Scouts. “The girls not only assist with the meal deliveries, but they also learn about the organization and its impact on seniors.”

Paul McPherson Brunner, who served as interim CEO of Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio & Northern Kentucky, was also honored with the 2025 Much More than A Meal award for his service to the organization.

Funds raised during the event will help Meals on Wheels continue to serve more than 10,000 seniors in Ohio and Kentucky.

The nonprofit also announced plans to launch a new campaign in April titled "Driving into the Future." The initiative will help Meals on Wheels prepare for the increasing needs of seniors in the region.

For more information about Meals on Wheels and its upcoming campaigns, click here.