Active Generations will launch its annual March for Meals campaign in March 2026, aiming to raise $200,000 to combat senior hunger in the Sioux Falls metro area.
“This year’s campaign comes at a critical time for Meals on Wheels of the Sioux Empire,” said Betsy Schuster, CEO and President of Active Generations. “We’re adding about 20 new seniors each month at an annual cost of $1,900 per person along with facing funding reductions. To keep pace and avoid starting a waitlist for seniors who rely on meal delivery, we are projecting a funding gap of around $450,000. Our March for Meals goal is $200,000 to help close that gap.”
March for Meals raises awareness of Active Generations’ Senior Nutrition Services, which are essential for adults aged 60 and older in the region. In 2025, Active Generations provided over 281,256 meals to 5,400 individuals. With 52% of clients living in poverty and more than 4,100 living alone, the daily visit from a Meals on Wheels volunteer is often their only social connection.
“We are incredibly grateful to Avera, Citi, Lewis Drug, Minnwest Bank and First Premier Bank/PREMIER Bankcard for leading the way this year,” Schuster said. “Their combined commitment of $52,000 provides a powerful foundation for this year’s March for Meals. These community leaders recognize that investing in senior nutrition is a proactive step that helps our neighbors age in place and prevents the need for more expensive institutional care.”
To address growing demand and offset funding reductions, the organization encourages community support. Donations of any amount are appreciated and have a significant impact. For example:
- $5.25 provides one hot, nutritious meal for a homebound senior.
- $36.75 covers a full week of meals.
- $157.50 ensures a senior has meals for 30 days
- $1,916.25 provides a full year of nutrition for seniors in the area.
“After federal and state reimbursement, Active Generations relies on participant contributions and community donations to cover the remaining cost of each meal,” said Samantha Locke, Meals on Wheels of the Sioux Empire Manager. “Many of the seniors we serve are living on fixed incomes and simply cannot afford the full cost. Whether you give $5 or $500, your gift makes a direct and meaningful impact on a senior’s health and their ability to remain independent in their own home.”
In addition to individual donations, March for Meals promotes community involvement through partnerships with local businesses. You can support March for Meals by dining out at the following restaurants on the following dates in March:
- R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Brix Wine Bar, Trio Jazz Club and Maribella Ristorante: On March 3, 10% of sales will go toward March for Meals.
- The Barrel House: On March 9, 10% of sales will go toward March for Meals.
“With 20 new seniors seeking our services every month, our mission is to ensure no one is ever placed on a waitlist,” Schuster said. “Our nutrition program makes sure our community’s adults stay nourished, independent, and healthy for as long as possible.”
For information on donating, participating businesses, or volunteering as a driver, visit our March for Meals page or call (605) 333-3305.
