Every year, Lanakila Meals on Wheels delivers warm holiday meals to hundreds of meal recipients in our program. During the recent holiday season, the support of more than 240 volunteers enabled Lanakila Meals on Wheels to deliver a total of 1,200 fresh meals to homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities on both Thanksgiving and Christmas mornings.
Weeks in advance, Lanakila Kitchen begins preparation of a traditional Thanksgiving meal that includes roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, vegetable medley, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin crunch. For Christmas, homemade laulau, chicken long rice, sweet potato, lomi salmon, and haupia were on the menu.
It truly is a season of giving as families, friends, and colleagues merrily volunteered as packers and drivers, making the occasion special. Packers assisted in preparing and packaging each meal for routes that spanned across the island, while drivers picked up their routes at our Bachelot location or one of our convenient shuttle stops in Kapolei, Windward, and Mililani. These stops served as more than just pick-up points; they became centers of gratitude and camaraderie among veteran and first-time volunteers and staff members. It was heartwarming to witness our community unite to spread holiday cheer on days when many seniors might otherwise be alone. With the help of a dedicated team of volunteers, Lanakila Meals on Wheels provided not only a comforting meal, but also holiday gifts prepared by students, donors, and other community members, all to ensure that no one was forgotten during the holiday season.
Reflecting on the season, it is evident that the spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas was alive and well. The joy on the faces of those receiving meals and the enthusiasm of the volunteers made it a memorable event. Lanakila Meals on Wheels is grateful for the unwavering support from our community. We look forward to continuing this tradition of generosity and unity. Thank you to all who contributed to making these days possible.
In The News:
Hawaii News Now: Over 800 seniors and homebound individuals receive Thanksgiving meal
Volunteers Spread Christmas Joy on Oahu with Meals on Wheels
Do you know a senior in need? Find out how Lanakila Meals on Wheels supports seniors here. Interested in volunteering, becoming a partner, or donor? Learn more about how to get involved here.
Lanakila Meals on Wheels and Lanakila Kitchen are programs of Lanakila Pacific, a Hawaii-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to building independence and improving the quality of life for individuals with cognitive, physical, social or age-related challenges.