Meals On Wheels of Sarasota Launches Holiday Drive

October 22, 2021 – Sarasota

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  

Blankets  
Bath soap 
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.orgor 941-366-6693.