Today, Senior Citizens Inc. marked a historic milestone with the delivery of its 7 millionth meal to a homebound older adult in coastal Georgia.

The moment reflects 65 years of service, beginning in 1959 when neighbors came together to deliver 13 sack lunches to older adults who could no longer shop or cook for themselves. What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into one of the region’s most critical support for older adults—yet the focus remains unchanged: neighbors helping neighbors.

Each meal delivered through Senior Citizens Inc.’s Meals on Wheels program includes a nutritious meal, a wellness check, and a friendly visit. For many clients, that visit may be the only personal interaction they have that day.

“This milestone is meaningful not because of the number, but because of the lives behind it,” said Patti Lyons, President of Senior Citizens Inc. “Seven million meals means seven million times someone knew they were not alone.”

Senior Citizens Inc. has delivered Meals on Wheels for 65 years—long before a national Meals on Wheels network existed. Over that time, the program has proven to be one of the most effective and affordable ways to support older adults and help them remain safely in their homes.

In fact, the cost to provide Meals on Wheels to an older adult for an entire year is roughly equal to the cost of a single day in the hospital—a powerful reminder that prevention, nutrition, and human connection are not only compassionate, but fiscally responsible.

A Fragile Lifeline
Despite its impact, Meals on Wheels funding remains volatile, relying on a complex mix of federal, state, local, and private support. Rising food costs, increased demand, and a growing aging population continue to strain the system.

“Meals on Wheels is often described as a lifeline, and that’s exactly what it is,” Lyons said. “But it is also a fragile one. Every meal we deliver depends on sustained community support.”

Today’s 7 millionth meal was delivered as part of regular routes, keeping the focus where it belongs—on the daily work of feeding and checking on older adults.