Meals on Wheels opens ‘senior innovation hub’ in Kearny Mesa

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Meals on Wheels San Diego County has moved to a new location in Kearny Mesa, allowing the organization to serve more clients and seniors who are hard to reach.

“Just to have someone come to their door and bring them something and let them know that you care about them,” said Judy Summers, Meals on Wheels San Diego County volunteer.

“I’m retired now, and this is the way I like to give back,” Summers added.

Steve and Judy Summers have been volunteering for Meals on Wheels for many years. The mother-son team saw the difference the organization made during her final days and decided to sign up to help.

“Ten years ago, my aunt received meals on wheels,” said Steve Summers, also a volunteer. “The people are just wonderful.”

“When a senior is homebound, they’re just as hungry for the human connection as they are for the food,” said Brent Wakefield, president and CEO of Meals on Wheels San Diego County.

The food delivery also serves as a wellness check where volunteers can report a change in condition or needs that a senior may have.

“It’s wonderful to know that they have somebody to talk to,” said Judy Summers.

The new center consolidated the nonprofit’s kitchen, Metro San Diego service center and volunteer hub to create a “senior innovation hub.” Elder Help San Diego also moved into the building, making all resources available to seniors in one place.

“I’m always smiling, it’s just a fun place,” said Regina Jackson, a food service production line staff member.

Jackson has worked at Meals on Wheels San Diego County longer than anyone else, for 25 years and through three relocations.

“Yup. Everything’s better. A lot of space,” said Regina Jackson, food service production line staff member.

It allows the organization to continue delivering meals to seniors, from the beaches to Borrego Springs.

“We’re really excited to be opening this center because it gives us the capacity to serve more,” Wakefield said.

They’re currently serving 650,000 meals across the county each year, but demand is rapidly growing due to the increasing senior population, and these renovations will help them meet that demand.In five years, they’re hoping to provide two million meals a year.

As they double and triple their operations, they really need more volunteers and encourage anyone who is interested to go to sandiegomealsonwheels.org .

“The reaction they get is what it’s about. Their smiling face and knowing that they’re OK,” Steve Summers said.

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