Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels will continue delivering seven meals a week to homebound seniors for the remainder of 2026. The decision follows a six-month community-supported extension and confirms the outcome of a commitment made in December 2025.
In October 2025, a significant reduction in federal funding through the Older Americans Act forced Fort Bend Seniors to plan a reduction in home-delivered meals, from seven per week to five, beginning January 1, 2026. In the weeks following, an outpouring of community generosity allowed the organization to postpone the reduction for six months, with a commitment to reevaluate at the midyear point. That reevaluation is complete: seven meals a week will continue for homebound seniors across Fort Bend and Waller Counties through the end of 2026.
“Our community showed up for our seniors when it mattered most,” said Doug Simpson, CEO of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. “Corporate partners increased their giving. Local foundations stepped forward. Government leaders stood behind us. Individual donors gave generously. Volunteers kept showing up, meal after meal, week after week. Because of them, homebound seniors across Fort Bend and Waller Counties will keep receiving the nutrition, safety checks and human connection they depend on.”
Each of the seven weekly meals protects the health, dignity, and independence of a homebound senior. For many older neighbors, the volunteer at the door is the only face-to-face visit of the day. A reduction to five meals a week would have left two days each week without a nutritious meal.
This outcome does not mean the need has been met. Federal funding remains below pre-2025 levels, and the cost of feeding each senior continues to rise. Sustained generosity from individuals, businesses, foundations and government partners will decide what home-delivered meal service looks like beyond 2026.
While Fort Bend Seniors continues working to secure the funding needed to sustain these services, they are equally committed to ensuring the agency reaches every senior who needs them. o that end, Fort Bend Seniors is increasing its outreach efforts across Fort Bend and Waller Counties to connect older adults with home-delivered meals and nearby senior centers. Many eligible seniors are unaware these free services exist. Neighbors, family members, faith leaders, and healthcare providers play a key role in closing this gap. Refer a senior today at www.fortbendseniors.org.
“Today we celebrate what our community made possible,” Simpson added. “Tomorrow, we keep building toward a future where every homebound senior in Fort Bend and Waller Counties has seven meals a week, every week, for as long as they need us. We invite everyone who cares about our seniors to stay engaged: donate, volunteer, or spread the word. Together, We Can Deliver.”
Fort Bend Seniors extends its gratitude to every partner who made this outcome possible and invites the community to keep the momentum going by making a contribution today.