Voluntary Action Center (VAC) Executive Director Nate Kloster began his Rotary presentation this week by giving a big “Thank You” to those who volunteer to deliver food for their “Meals on Wheels” program. However, he said the agency has been forced to use a waiting list for this program as demand to help an aging population and those with disabilities remain independent in their own home or apartment exceeds available funding sources. Kloster explained how VAC’s mission is carried out by providing high quality transportation and nutrition services. Their “Meals on Wheels” deliveries cover DeKalb, LaSalle, Bureau, and Putnam Counties. Those qualifying for “Meals on Wheels” are 60 and older, homebound, unable to independently shop, isolated, and lack caregiving support. Kloster says they are serving 969 clients but their waiting list currently numbers 342 people. An additional $500,000 is needed to close that gap according to Kloster.
Kloster said funding for “Meals on Wheels" comes from a range of federal, state, and local sources. He said 47% comes from state government, 18% from the federal government, 14% from local government, 9% from client payments, and the remaining about 13% from donations. He said there has been a 42% year-over-year increase in requests for service but limited resources to help cover the added cost. Kloster gave poignant examples of those on their waiting list in describing a woman who is wheelchair bound after breaking her wrist and hip and another person who is blind and only has limited caregiver access. He said VAC is hoping to help add services to those on their waiting list through local fundraisers. These include a stand-up “Bad Momz” women’s comedy night at the Egyptian Theatre on April 4 and their annual golf outing on September 28. Details on these events and volunteer opportunities are available on their website at www.vacdk.org.