Nationally, 1 in 5 Meals on Wheels recipients report going without food in order to care for their beloved pets.

We’re working to change that.

Research shows that seniors with pets are less likely to experience symptoms of depression, express feelings of loneliness, and even less likely to fall ill. In fact, for many pet-owning older adults, especially for those who live alone or in isolated areas, their pet is their closest companion and only source of comfort. For years, our drivers have brought back stories of Meals on Wheels recipients who shared part of their weekly meals with their pets- despite being hungry themselves. It’s heart-breaking to know that folks in our community are facing such an impossible choice in their daily lives, and with the No Empty Dish Pet Food Delivery Program we’re dedicated to changing that.

Check out two testimonials below from recipients who say Meals on Wheels is the reason they’re able to keep their beloved companions!

What is No Empty Dish?

No Empty Dish is a supplemental pet food delivery program specifically designed to help Meals on Wheels recipients to care for their pets. Participants receive a monthly delivery of pet food intended to help ease the cost of providing for their beloved companions. This program is currently only available to existing Meals on Wheels Upstate SC clients in Anderson & Oconee Counties.

Can I receive supplemental pet

food through this program?

No Empty Dish is currently only available to existing Meals on Wheels Upstate SC clients in Anderson & Oconee Counties. If you are already receiving meals from us and interested in joining the No Empty Dish program to aid in supporting your pet, give us a call at 864-210-8960 to speak with our Program Manager.

It’s simple.

When isolated, lonely seniors have a pet to share their life with, they are healthier and happier. When seniors don’t have the resources necessary to care for their pets, they are willing to forego care and necessities for themselves to make ends meet.

But you can help Upstate seniors and their pets today with your generous donation to the Senior Solutions / Meals on Wheels Upstate SC No Empty Dish Pet Food Program!

“Animals are such agreeable friends-

they ask no questions,

they pass no criticisms.”

— George Eliot