Eleven faith-based organizations in downtown Fort Worth held their first meeting to address elder hunger in the community, planting the seeds for what would become one of Tarrant County's most trusted nonprofits. Those organizations included Broadway Baptist, Central Baptist, First Christian, First United Methodist, and First Presbyterian, among others.
Conversation became action. The faith-based collaboration officially launched as Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County, delivering its first home meals to homebound seniors. A small group of volunteers carried hot meals to neighbors who could no longer cook for themselves.
After four years of grassroots service, the organization formally incorporated as Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County. Becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit unlocked broader fundraising, paid staff, and a foundation for decades of steady growth.
After more than 50 years of service, Carla Jutson stepped down as president and CEO. Alissa Deaton, longtime VP of Client Services, was named the new President & CEO, carrying the mission into its next chapter.
Half a century later, Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County delivers nearly one million meals every year to 6,500+ homebound neighbors across the county. Backed by 3,300+ volunteers and 18 million meals served since 1973, the mission remains the same: no one goes hungry.