Citymeals On Wheels: How older adults in New York can get food assistance for free | Requirements and how to apply
The Citymeals on Wheels program provides a vital lifeline to New York City’s homebound elderly, offering healthy meals and vital companionship.
Food insecurity among older New Yorkers is a growing crisis. Thousands of seniors face daily challenges accessing nutritious meals due to limited income, mobility issues, or lack of family support — all of which can take a serious toll on their health and well-being.
That’s where programs like Citymeals on Wheels step in. This nonprofit organization provides more than just food — it offers connection, comfort, and care to older adults across all five boroughs of New York City, as well as other resources such as support and help with housing and transport.
If you’re a senior living in NYC, you may be eligible to receive free, home-delivered meals through Citymeals on Wheels. Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect.
This local #MealsOnWheels program in New York City just reached a major milestone! We are so grateful for all the work @Citymeals puts in to protect seniors from hunger and isolation. Watch their video featuring one such 87-year-old client, Asha Bell.
— Meals on Wheels (@_MealsOnWheels) July 5, 2024
Incredible work!👏 👏 👏 pic.twitter.com/WyO0OjKvRR
What Is Citymeals on Wheels?
Founded in 1981, Citymeals on Wheels has delivered over 70 million meals to older New Yorkers in need. Today, the organization serves more than 22,000 seniors across the city — and its impact goes far beyond nutrition.
Here’s what Citymeals offers:
- Nutritious meal delivery meals are prepared under the guidance of registered dietitians and tailored to meet the dietary needs of older adults. They’re delivered directly to the homes of seniors who can’t cook for themselves.
- Social connection along with meals, recipients receive handmade cards and friendly visits from volunteers, helping to ease loneliness and foster a sense of community.
- Emergency support during extreme weather events or public health emergencies, Citymeals distributes shelf-stable food packages to ensure uninterrupted access to meals.
- Holiday companionship on special occasions, the organization delivers festive meals that bring joy and celebration to seniors who might otherwise spend holidays alone.
Who Qualifies for Free Meals?
To be eligible for Citymeals on Wheels, you must:
- Be age 60 or older
- Be unable to prepare nutritious meals and have no one to do so for you
- Have a physical or mental disability that requires assistance
- Be able to live safely at home with the support of meal services
MEALS ON WHEELS: For over 40 years, Citymeals on Wheels has been delivering food to some of New York's most vulnerable for free - and now they'll be serving even more delicious food. https://t.co/4sDRzlovxr pic.twitter.com/wwias6VH0o
— News12BX (@News12BX) February 7, 2025
How to Apply for Citymeals resources
If you meet the criteria, applying is simple:
- Visit the Citymeals website and enter your ZIP code to find your local case management agency.
- Call the number provided to schedule an in-home assessment.
- A case manager will visit your home to evaluate your eligibility. You’ll be asked about your medical history and living situation — but you won’t need to share financial details or immigration status.
What food is included in a Citymeals Delivery?
Once approved, meal deliveries begin immediately. There’s no cost to receive meals, though recipients may make voluntary contributions based on their financial ability.
Each meal is designed to meet one-third of a senior’s daily nutritional needs and typically includes:
- A main dish with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates
- A small container of skim milk
- A slice of whole wheat bread
- A light dessert such as fresh fruit, juice, or applesauce
Meals are low in fat and salt, with no added sugars — all crafted to support the health and vitality of older adults.
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