The concept of Meals On Wheels is a British concept that originated during the Second World War. In 1939, many people who had lost their homes and consequently their abilities to cook for themselves were supplied meals by the Women’s Volunteer Civil Service. The women also brought refreshments via canteens to servicemen during the war. These canteens soon earned the name of “meals on wheels.” The concept of Meals on Wheels, taking food to those in need, was adopted in North America in the 1960’s.

In 1972, the Saint John Home Economics Association, the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Public Health and Social Services Councils, Family Services and several church groups joined together to form the Community Meals On Wheels in the city of Saint John. Community Meals on Wheels came into existence initially to provide a well-balanced, nourishing meal, a few moments of companionship and an opportunity to allow volunteers to check in on recipients. Expanding from three routes (in 1973) to eleven (in 2015) Meals On Wheels has evolved to become an incorporated organization whose meal program has diversified from a single Hot Meal program to include as well a Frozen Entree program and a Congregate Dining program (Wheels to Meals). Community Meals On Wheels presently serves an average of 200 people per month with more than 100 caring volunteers to deliver meals. Three staff members are hired to ensure the smooth operation of the organization: the Executive Director (full time), the Coordinator of Volunteer Services (full time) and the Food Manager (full time).

Community Meals On Wheels is a worthwhile organization that has partnered in the community with several organizations at different levels to promote the well-being of Saint John residents. Locally we are in partnership with the Human Development Council which assists in promoting us through a social directory as well as the Saint John Volunteer Centre which works to recruit some of our volunteers. These three partners are all United Way agencies. Provincially we are a member of the New Brunswick Home Support Association and nationally a part of the Canadian Association of Community Care. Community Meals On Wheels has interacted with other Meals On Wheels programs across the nation to exchange ideas on improving its service.