MOWS staff and board members; from left: Kimberly Gossett-Smith, Jessica Mena, Holly Lyons, Maureen Cook, Sharon Ray, Rob Glover, Dawn Redig (front), Brenda Cross, Ariana Kistner, Margie VerHagen, Dennis Lewis, Al Lafere, Erin Neill, Mike Mishler. Photo by Malarie Hall Photography.
Rockwall, TX (November 27, 2024) – On October 5th, the Meals on Wheels Senior Services held its much-anticipated gala, “A Meal to Remember: Bridging the Gap.” The event was an incredible success, with community leaders, sponsors, and supporters coming together to secure a brighter future for the region’s seniors.
A special thank you goes to Interstate Classic Cars and Jeff and Bobbie Fleming for their unwavering support. For years, their sponsorship has helped drive MOWSS initiatives forward, and this year was no different. Generous donations from many the night of the gala provided a significant boost, ensuring the evening’s success and, most notably, helping to secure the Mabee Foundation Challenge Grant that unlocked an additional $1.29 million in funding, a pivotal moment that ensures the completion of the new Senior Life Center—a place where seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities and caregivers can thrive and have purpose.
In addition to the thrilling announcement of unlocking the grant, The Making a Difference Award was presented to Dianna Johnson, recognizing her long-standing dedication and tireless support for the senior community. The gala committee also deserves immense gratitude for their countless hours of work which showed in every detail of the night, creating a memorable and impactful event.
Maureen Cook, Development Director for MOWSS, said, “This night not only celebrates our past achievements but also paves the way for a brighter future. With the Senior Life Center soon to be realized and a return to providing daily hot meals for our homebound clients, we are thrilled to continue serving this community in even greater ways.”
Hall Photography
The capital campaign continues as we prepare for what the building promises—expanded programs to provide support, community, purpose, and nourishment. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners, the commercial kitchen will offer a range of quality and nutritious food options for our recipients, both homebound and active seniors. The ability to purchase items in bulk will make every donation go just a little further. Our volunteer training area will be in full use for meal distribution and the latest information and tools to support our volunteers as they are the boots on the ground with our clients.
The gathering hall will come to life on a daily basis and will provide opportunities for congregate meals and more. Morning exercise classes, Arts and crafts sessions, and communal meals for the active senior and their caregivers will certainly be a buzz of activity on a regular basis. All of this will happen under one roof, a place where ALL are Welcome to the Table.
Groundbreaking for the Senior Life Center will be forthcoming in 2025. We are grateful to have met this recent milestone with the support from the Rockwall community and the Mabee Foundation. We have more work to do as we are on the front line of combatting hunger, depression and isolation. Your partnership in our campaign will fill a critical void in many lives. We look forward to creating a safer, and we look forward to growing along with our community. For more information, contact Margie VerHagen, Executive Director at 972-771-9514.
Sponsored article by Meals on Wheels. Photos by Malarie Hall Photography.
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