Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeLanakila Meals on Wheels delivers Thanksgiving meals

Lanakila Meals on Wheels delivers Thanksgiving meals

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - On Thanksgiving Day, Lanakila Meals on Wheels and more!, Hawaii's largest and only island-wide meal delivery program, delivered 800 hot meals and more to homebound seniors island-wide.

Despite the trying economic times, an army of over 275 volunteers came together with the help of generous donations from the community to provide the seniors with a delicious Thanksgiving meal, along with all the trimmings. The seniors also received Thanksgiving greetings made by elementary and high school students to brighten the holiday.

"Many Meals on Wheels programs across the country are struggling to provide meals in this down economy, and some have even had to cancel their holiday deliveries," said Toni Fegers, Director of Lanakila Meals on Wheels.

"Although we are still facing funding shortfall and waiting list, we are so thankful for all the incredible volunteers and donors who stepped up to ensure Thanksgiving meals for Hawaii's seniors despite these tough economic times," said Fegers.

The diverse group of volunteers that helped included Rising Phoenix Jaycees, Temple Emanu-El, Honolulu Christian Church, the Biker's Association, Matson Navigation, The Pilot Club of Honolulu, HECO, the UH Manoa School of Social Work, Hawaii Air National Guard, HGEA, Girl Scout Troop 615, and JROTC.

The menu included 620 pounds of roast turkey and gravy, and all the trimmings including cranberry sauce, stuffing, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, pumpkin pie and juice.

While funding for Thanksgiving has been provided, monetary donations and volunteer drivers are still needed to provide meals to homebound seniors on Christmas Day, and throughout the year, and donations of toiletries, stationary and small gift items such as drug store gift cards are welcomed. Donated items will be delivered to seniors in need as holiday care packages along with the meals on Christmas Day.

To volunteer, donate or get involved, contact Lanakila Meals on Wheels at 531-0555 or click here.