Sarasota, Florida – October 22, 2021 – Meals On Wheels of Sarasota is inviting the community to bring a little extra comfort and holiday cheer to neighbors in need through its annual Share the Love Holiday Gift Drive. The Sarasota organization that delivers hot meals and warm smiles daily to more than 750 homebound seniors, veterans, children and families is accepting donated gifts through Friday, December 3, 2021. In addition to facing hunger, many clients are alone and isolated, and the gift bags they receive brighten their holidays and remind them they are not forgotten.
“The holidays can be difficult for those who are unable to spend them with friends or loved ones – especially now. Even a small gift makes a world of difference for the homebound,” said Marjorie Broughton, the executive director of Meals On Wheels of Sarasota. “This is a particularly gratifying time of year because we know the joy they feel when they are remembered during the holidays.”
New gifts may be dropped off at Meals On Wheels of Sarasota (421 N. Lime Ave.), Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition to the holiday drive, Meals On Wheels of Sarasota will participate in the 2021 Subaru Share the Love® Event as a member of Meals on Wheels America, one of four national Share the Love charitable partners supported through the promotion. From November 18, 2021, through January 3, 2022, Subaru will donate $250 to a host of charities – including Meals On Wheels – for every new Subaru purchased or leased, per customer selection.
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Subaru,” Broughton added. “Without the support of federal funding, we count on campaigns like this to help us continue supporting our seniors, veterans, children and families in need. With Subaru, we’ll be able to make this year’s event a success.”
Meals On Wheels clients, who range in age from 3 to 106, receive meals because they are physically or mentally impaired and unable to prepare meals or go to a food pantry or grocery store. Hundreds of volunteers help prepare, pack and deliver heart-healthy meals daily throughout the year. In September, a wish list was distributed to help generous donors choose gifts that mean the most to clients.
2021 HOLIDAY WISH LIST
Blanket
Bath soap (bar or liquid)
Combs and brushes
Deodorant
First aid kits
Ink pens
Magnifying lenses
Nail files and nail clippers
Puzzle books
Shampoo and conditioner
Small calendars
Socks
Stamps
Tissues – boxes or packs
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Writing pads, notecards, and postcards
Toys appropriate for children between 3 and 15 years of age will also be welcomed
To learn more about the gift drive, volunteering, or donating, contact Meals On Wheels of Sarasota: info@mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org or 941-366-6693.
About Meals On Wheels of Sarasota
Meals On Wheels of Sarasota provides nutritious meals and friendship to individuals who are unable to plan, shop, or prepare meals for themselves. A team of volunteers deliver more than 750 meals daily to Sarasota residents who are homebound, including physically or mentally challenged children, adults, seniors and veterans on a temporary or ongoing basis. Heart healthy meals are prepared and delivered to individuals and families who live in Sarasota County between University Parkway and Albee Farm Road, and from Longboat, Lido and Siesta keys east to the Sarasota County Line. To donate or learn more, visit www.mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org.