The Cass County COA recently announced it received a $1,500 grant award from Meals on Wheels America for its participation in the 14th Annual March for Meals campaign.

This past March was the COA’s first year participating in the national Meals on Wheels awareness campaign, designed to celebrate the proven collaboration of local community organizations, businesses, all levels of government, and compassionate individuals to ensure that local seniors are not forgotten.

“March for Meals provided us with a special opportunity to celebrate the importance of Meals on Wheels to seniors throughout Cass County,” said Stacy Srivastava, community development team leader for the Cass County COA. “It was a pleasure to see our community of volunteers, donors, and supporters come together for the occasion.”

Throughout the month of March, the COA celebrated Meals on Wheels, supporting the seniors who rely on this vital program.

Sponsors included Midwest Energy Cooperative, the Minority Coalition of Cass County, and Dr. Hayman and Dr. Stefanski of Cassopolis Dental. The COA received assistance with meal delivery from Community Champions, including Probate/Family Court Judge Susan L. Dobrich, Probate Register Kelley James-Jura, State Rep. Aaron Miller, State Sen. John Proos, and Cass County Sheriff Joseph Underwood, Jr. Also, Four Winds Casino provided a generous donation of Easter dinners for each meal recipient. Additional donors and participants included Hayden & Sons True Value Hardware, McDonald’s, Porky’s Party Place, Southwestern Michigan College’s Social Work program, Subway, Volinia Outcomes School, and Wings Etc.

Nearly $400,000 has been granted to 265 local Meals on Wheels programs and one Meals on Wheels America-affiliated State Association based on their March for Meals efforts. This year’s grants were made possible through the generosity of Subaru of America, Inc. and its eighth annual Share the Love Event.

During the event, held from Nov. 19, 2015, through Jan. 2, 2016, $250 was donated to a customer’s choice of a national or hometown charity for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased.

Meals on Wheels America has been a participating national charity since the event’s inception in 2008.

“The March for Meals grant program is our way of recognizing Meals on Wheels America Members for their efforts to raise awareness and much-needed support for the critical service they provide their communities,” said Meals on Wheels America President and CEO Ellie Hollander. “Together, we can change the way this country cares for its seniors.”

The annual March for Meals campaign is an effort led by Meals on Wheels America to present opportunities for volunteers, businesses, and governments to support seniors in a variety of ways that make communities stronger, safer, and healthier. For more information, visit marchformeals.com.