Edward's Story with Meals on Wheels and United Way

Elderly man receiving meal from Meals on Wheels volunteer smiling at camera while sitting in recliner chair.

At age 99, Edward is a proud WWII Navy Veteran who has received more than a dozen medals and commendations for saving his ship from sinking when it was attacked. Edward is an American hero; he is also a Meals on Wheels recipient, thanks to your support of the United Way funded program.

Since the death of his wife of 71 years, he lives independently in his own home. The meals provide Edward with daily nutrition and the support he needs to stay healthy. His daughter-in-law, Cheryl, is thankful for Meals on Wheels. “It has been a blessing for him and our family. The volunteers who deliver the meals provide me with a piece of mind by checking on him each day.”  Edward suffers from shortness of breath and has difficulty walking. The family values the extra support.

In Berks County, 26% of seniors live alone, with nearly 12% living below the poverty line. They are veterans, retired schoolteachers, factory workers and other essential workers. They are our parents and grandparents. Your United Way support helps our agency partner, Berks Encore, provide nourishing weekday meals to more than 630 seniors each week throughout Berks County.