A Growing Concern: addressing the dangers of social isolation and food insecurities in Summerville

As social isolation and food insecurity continue to impact the Summerville area, Meals on Wheels of Summerville remains dedicated to addressing these critical issues during these unprecedented, challenging times. The well-established Meals on Wheels of Summerville, a nonprofit founded in 1982, stands as a crucial support system for the community, combating hunger and isolation among its most vulnerable residents. However, the organization now grapples with funding shortages as the number of clients the organization serves has increased by 14.8% since last year.

With more than 200 volunteers, each delivering six meals a week across 22 routes every week of the year, the organization requires over $245,700 annually in food costs alone. This figure is expected to rise as demand continues to grow. Meals on Wheels of Summerville can barely sustain the growth and may have to consider reducing delivery to five meals a week instead of the six they have been delivering since 2022 to keep up with demand.

“We’re seeing higher costs, more people in need, and fewer grants available,” said Crystal Bovell, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Summerville. “Rising costs have strained our ability to meet the growing demand, and many clients rely on us because they lack family support, have limited mobility, cannot cook for themselves, or afford food. Our volunteers often provide the only human contact these people have, which is crucial for their well-being. We need the community’s support more than ever to continue providing these essential services.”

Meals on Wheels of Summerville operates to provide nourishing meals and compassionate companionship to the people of Summerville. Despite not receiving any government funding, the organization is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Summerville residents. Beyond meal delivery, the nonprofit runs specialized programs such as breakfast bags with nonperishable items for nourishment outside of regular meal deliveries as well as AniMeals, ensuring that beloved pets of clients receive necessary nutrition, as well as providing

While Meals on Wheels of Summerville does not qualify clients by age or income, many are seniors. The number of seniors seeking assistance has been steadily increasing since 2018, a trend expected to continue as the state’s senior population is projected to exceed 1.5 million by 2030, according to the South Carolina Department on Aging.

In celebration of its 42nd anniversary, Meals on Wheels of Summerville is launching a matching gift fundraiser, doubling the impact of all donations made by August 25. Every contribution is crucial to ensuring that no person in Summerville goes hungry or feels isolated.

For more information on how to support Meals on Wheels of Summerville, please visit mealsonwheelsofsummerville.org or call 843.873.8224.

About Meals on Wheels of Summerville

Founded in 1982, Meals on Wheels of Summerville stands as a beacon of support for the Summerville community, addressing issues of hunger and isolation. The organization’s mission is to provide nourishing meals and compassionate companionship to individuals facing limited mobility or isolation. Operating in the Summerville area and receiving no government funding, Meals on Wheels of Summerville is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Beyond meal delivery, the organization runs specialized programs, such as AniMeals, ensuring that both the nutritional needs of individuals and their beloved pets are met. For more information, visit mowsummerville.org or call 843.873.8224.