FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Meals on Wheels

With so many wheels delivering so many meals across Central Indiana, the region, state and country, people understandably become confused about the differences between the various programs. This list of frequently asked questions addresses some of the most common concerns:

Why are so many organizations called "Meals on Wheels"?
Is there a national organization for nonprofit Meals on Wheels?
Is there a state or local organization for nonprofit Meals on Wheels?
Is Meals on Wheels, Inc. part of CICOA (Central Indiana Council on Aging)?
Does Meals on Wheels, Inc. put new clients on a waiting list?
Does Meals on Wheels, Inc. solicit donations from clients?
What are the age and income requirements needed to qualify for Meals on Wheels?
Are Meals on Wheels services free?
What sets Meals on Wheels, Inc. apart from other meal delivery programs?
Have we missed your question?

Why are so many organizations called "Meals on Wheels"?
The name "Meals on Wheels" has, for decades, identified many unrelated organizations-including everything from nonprofits to government agencies to one-room mom-and-pop operations.

Is there a national organization for nonprofit Meals on Wheels?
No. A national association, the Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) exists for all types of programs and related vendors. Though Meals on Wheels, Inc. has a membership with MOWAA, that organization has no authority over MOW, its operations, board or staff. For more information about MOWAA go to www.mowaa.org

Is there a state or local organization for nonprofit Meals on Wheels?
No. However, Meals on Wheels, Inc. is leading an effort among Central Indiana nonprofit Meals on Wheels to form an alliance. See more here.

Is Meals on Wheels, Inc. part of CICOA (Central Indiana Council on Aging)?
No. Meals on Wheels, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit organization. CICOA is primarily a government program, funded with federal and state appropriations as well as solicited donations. For more information about CICOA go to www.cicoa.org.

Does Meals on Wheels, Inc. put new clients on a waiting list?
No. We are generally able to serve clients within two to three business days after the physician's prescription required to start the service is received at the Meals on Wheels office.

Does Meals on Wheels, Inc. solicit donations from clients?
No. Volunteers and drivers for Meals on Wheels, Inc. are prohibited from soliciting or accepting donations or payments in any form from clients.

What are the age and income requirements needed to qualify for Meals on Wheels?
Meals on Wheels, Inc. has no age or income requirements to qualify for services. Anyone who is homebound may receive services after obtaining a physician's prescription. See more here.

Are Meals on Wheels services free?
No. The cost for two meals per day is $6.00. Some clients may qualify for financial assistance. To learn more, click here.

What sets Meals on Wheels, Inc. apart from other meal delivery programs?
Our philosophy is to put the needs of our clients first. Every decision made at Meals on Wheels is made in the best interests of our clients. Through this guiding principle several important distinctions have emerged that set Meals on Wheels, Inc. apart from other programs. See more here.

Meals on Wheels Holidays 2013

Have we missed your question?
If you have a question we haven't answered, please contact us for more information.

For further details please contact us at (317) 252-5558 or by e-mail at info@mealsonwheelsindy.org.