HOUSTON – A major change is coming to Meals on Wheels services in Houston, impacting hundreds of seniors across the area.
After more than two decades of service, YWCA Houston announced it will transition its Meals on Wheels program to Interfaith Ministries (IM) beginning April 1, though officials say that date could change.
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According to YWCA Houston Board Chair Dr. Janice M. Beal, the transition is designed to ensure continued support for seniors who rely on the program.
The organization emphasized that meal service will not be interrupted during the change.
“The most important thing we want you to know is that your meals will continue without interruption,” Beal said in a message to clients.
Interfaith Ministries will take over meal delivery operations, and recipients are expected to continue receiving meals on their normal schedules without needing to take any action.
Expansion will serve nearly 1,000 additional seniors
Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston announced Monday it is expanding its Meals on Wheels program after being selected by the Harris County Area Agency on Aging.
Through the expansion, IM will begin serving approximately 950 seniors, many of whom were previously part of YWCA Houston’s program.
The organization is already serving about 3,500 seniors across the Houston area.
The expansion also extends services into 17 additional zip codes south and southeast of downtown Houston, including:
- Third Ward
- Sunnyside
- Magnolia Park
These communities include many older adults who depend on daily meal delivery and wellness checks to remain independent.
Focus on continuity of care
IM Houston leaders say maintaining consistency for seniors is a top priority during the transition.
“Continuity of care is vital for seniors who depend on Meals on Wheels,” said President and CEO Sheroo Mukhtiar. “We are honored to serve these neighborhoods and ensure that seniors continue to receive the nourishment, connection, and dignity they deserve.”
YWCA Houston echoed that message, noting it has been an “honor” to serve the community for more than 20 years and expressing confidence in IM’s ability to continue that work.
Funding gap remains
While most of the program expansion will be covered by county funding, Interfaith Ministries says it still faces a $100,000 funding gap.
The nonprofit is seeking community support to help cover costs and expand services for vulnerable seniors, including:
- Breakfast and weekend meals
- Wellness support
- Free pet food through its Animeals program
What this means for seniors
For current Meals on Wheels recipients, officials say the transition should be seamless:
- No interruption in meal delivery
- No action required from clients
- Same schedule and service reliability
YWCA Houston leaders say they are grateful for the decades of support from staff and volunteers and are confident seniors will continue receiving the care they need.
It’s still unclear why YWCA Houston transferred services to Interfaith Ministries. KPRC 2’s Re’Chelle Turner reached out to the organization and waiting to hear back.
To learn more about helping Interfaith Ministries or volunteering, click the link below: IM Houston - IM Houston