Citymeals on Wheels delivers to elderly New Yorkers for the holidays

More than 16,000 meals were delivered to elderly New Yorkers on Christmas morning by Citymeals on Wheels, according to the nonprofit. 

The organization said it  had about 300 volunteers preparing meals and delivering them, ensuring some of New York’s most vulnerable populations are well-nourished and not forgotten this holiday season.  

“For four decades, Citymeals has nourished the bodies and souls of homebound elderly New Yorkers,” said Citymeals on Wheels Executive Director Beth Shapiro as the meals were delivered on Christmas. “Today, hundreds of dedicated volunteers are delivering festive meals and checking in on their older neighbors across the city, who would otherwise spend the day alone.” 

“Forty years ago, our first Christmas meals were made possible by Citymeals’ founder Gael Greene,” Shapiro added. “And thanks to our partners, like the Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center and others, we’ve become woven into the fabric of the city.”

Citymeals on Wheels serves those who are over 60 and have a disability. The majority of recipients live alone, with 40% rarely or never leaving their home. 

This year marked Citymeals on Wheels’ 40th anniversary. The organization was founded by Greene and James Beard after learning about the plight of New York’s elderly. Ever since, the organization has delivered 67 million meals to people across the city.