Meals on Wheels of Fullerton began delivering meals to homebound individuals on February 25, 1974, and celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Empty Bowls Fundraiser on February 25, 2024.

The program was initiated in 1973 by a group of volunteers who approached Carolann Thrasher, Director of the Volunteer Bureau of North Orange County. The first office was located on Youth Way, with meals prepared at Fullerton Community Hospital. Initial support came from organizations like the Red Cross and the National Charity League.

Richard Light served as the first volunteer coordinator, starting with 13 clients and 128 volunteers. In 1986, Meals on Wheels partnered with the Feedback Foundation, which increased the number of delivery routes to seven.

By 1991, Meals on Wheels Orange County became an independent nonprofit. Since 1995, the organization has been housed in the Philanthropy Building of the Assistance League of Fullerton, which provides rent and utilities.

Our mission is to deliver meals and supportive services to at-risk residents, primarily frail and elderly individuals. We currently serve 77 clients on seven routes, with 85% being elderly and many receiving assistance with meal costs.

We deliver two meals daily, Monday to Friday, through partnerships with Providence St. Jude Medical Center and Meals on Wheels Orange County. Our financial support comes from client fees, grants, and fundraising activities, including an annual fashion show.

In the fiscal year 2023-24, 200 volunteers contributed 4,090 hours, delivering 34,116 meals. Since 1974, a total of 1,847,024 meals have been provided. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and generous community support, Meals on Wheels of Fullerton continues to serve the homebound residents of the area.

Meals on Wheels of Fullerton, Inc.

223 W. Amerige Avenue, Fullerton  •  714-871-2200  •  mowfullerton.org

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