Governor Abbott and First Lady volunteer with Meals on Wheels to deliver Thanksgiving meals to seniors in Texas

Austin, Texas – This Thanksgiving, Governor Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott continued their annual tradition of volunteering with Meals on Wheels Central Texas to deliver Thanksgiving meals to families and homebound seniors in the Greater Austin area. The First Family was joined by Meals on Wheels Central Texas President and CEO Henry Van De Putte, who underscored the importance of the program in serving vulnerable Texans.

A Cherished Thanksgiving Tradition

Expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to give back, Governor Abbott stated, “The Meals on Wheels Thanksgiving Day delivery is one of the most cherished traditions for our family. Every year, we are honored to volunteer with Meals on Wheels to fight hunger among the elderly community in the Greater Austin area. The giving spirit truly embodies this holiday, and we encourage everyone in Texas to support those in need within their communities. We wish all Texans a very blessed and happy Thanksgiving.”

First Lady Abbott echoed his sentiments, adding, “We are thankful to spend Thanksgiving as a family helping the elderly community of Greater Austin. Meals on Wheels Central Texas’ tireless service to those in need is an example of what it means to be a Texan. Let us all give thanks and continue to serve those around us every day.”

Meals on Wheels Central Texas’ Mission

Meals on Wheels Central Texas, under the leadership of Henry Van De Putte, provides much more than meals. The program also conducts important safety checks to help older adults remain safe and live with dignity in their own homes. Highlighting the critical role of volunteers, Van De Putte stated, “All of us at Meals on Wheels Central Texas are proud to deliver hot, nutritious meals, along with important safety checks to help the older adults we serve age in place safely and with dignity. On this Day of Thanksgiving, we are particularly grateful for Governor Abbott and his family for their longstanding support for our mission as they join us in delivering meals to our community.”

The program serves over 3,000 Central Texans daily, with thousands more benefiting from its services statewide. Van De Putte emphasized that Meals on Wheels depends on the generosity and dedication of volunteers like the First Family and countless others who give their time throughout the year.

Giving Back to the Community

The Abbotts’ Thanksgiving Day participation highlights the importance of giving back to the community, especially to support vulnerable populations like the elderly. Their involvement exemplifies the spirit of service that Meals on Wheels Central Texas embodies. As the Governor and First Lady encouraged, Texans are reminded to find ways to serve their own communities, whether by volunteering, donating, or simply checking on neighbors in need.

Meals on Wheels Central Texas continues to play a vital role in combating hunger and ensuring the well-being of older adults across the state, a mission made stronger through the collaborative efforts of volunteers and community leaders.