The preparation and delivery of nutritionally balanced meals to the homebound still is at the core of Meals On Wheels of Stark & Wayne Counties.

“Our meals are available to any homebound individual, regardless of age or income,” said Teresa Barry, chief executive officer for the 35-year-old Massillon-based organization. “They can be contracted on a short-term or long-term basis, and we can begin service within two working days of receiving a request.

“Individuals recuperating from illness or injury find the nutritional support provided by our meals to be a key ingredient in their recovery,” said Barry.

A licensed dietitian designs the menus. Each meal, prepared in the agency’s commissary, meets one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance for nutrition. Regular, low-sodium and diabetic meals are available. A social services team works with clients to provide a personal assessment of their nutritional needs.

Although meals are prepared every weekday, the agency can accommodate less-frequent deliveries — even only once a week. Congregate meals also are served at lunchtime every day at several sites in Stark and Wayne counties for people older than 60 who can access transportation.

Providing nutritious meals isn’t the only thing Meals On Wheels of Stark & Wayne Counties is known for. It also offers peace of mind — for clients and their families.

“Often, our volunteers are the only people our clients see during the day,” said Barry. “Family members are comforted by the fact that we check in on their loved ones. Lives have literally been saved because of the quick response of our volunteers and staff.”

Who: Meals On Wheels of Stark & Wayne Counties, 2363 Nave St. SE, Massillon, (330) 832-7220; www.mow-starkwayne.org

What: A community service providing meals in a social or home setting, to assist individuals in remaining healthy, active and independent of extended-care facilities for as long as possible.

Board Members: William Belden Jr., Patrick Corcoran Jr., Timothy Escola, Jeff Ferry, Dave Grimm, the Rev. Robert Kaylor, Rod Meadows, Dean Olivieri, Daniel H. Plumly, Dan Spring, Maury Sullivan, Ted Watko.

Volunteers: Volunteers always are needed to deliver more than 60 routes every week day. Training and mileage reimbursements are available.

Donations: Send financial contributions to Meals On Wheels of Stark & Wayne Counties, 2363 Nave St. SE, Massillon, OH 44646; or call (330) 832-7220.