Meals on Wheels Rhode Island leaders say their program could be severely limited under President Trump’s proposed budget.  Rhode Island’s MOW program gets 30 percent of its funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which could see an 18 percent cut under the president’s plan. But although proposed cuts raise concerns, this isn’t the first time the organization has experienced a funding scare.

Executive director of MOWRI Heather Amaral says that the proposed cuts to health and human services are a real concern.

“It’s impossible to imagine a scenario where a significant cut to what makes up to 30 percent of the agency’s funding, would not result in some reduction of services,” said Amaral.

Amaral says cuts could result in fewer meals and delivery days.

During the 2008 financial crisis, MOWRI experienced cuts in state funding. During these scares, Amaral says the organization’s priority is to keep the focus on clients who are often scared.

“We make every effort to reassure the seniors that are receiving the meals that we’re doing everything we can to make sure they keep getting that service,” said Amaral.

Responding to allegations that the organization doesn’t show results, Amaral says the program is a savings tool for the state.

“Studies done by Ivy League universities prove what we see every day that the service of a home delivered meal does result in seniors staying healthier, safer, in their own home,” said Amaral. “We literally save money for Medicaid and Medicare programs.”

Census data says by 2020 Rhode Island’s 65 and older population will outnumber those under the age of five for the first time in history.

MOWRI leaders say the increasing senior population in Rhode Island makes funding the program more important than ever. In the meantime, they’ll work with what they can.

“We run as lean as we can and we’ll continue to do that,” said Amaral.

Rhode Island’s Meals on Wheels program has been around for 48 years. Once a day between 11 and noon, an estimated 2,000 seniors get a meal. The meals are modified for any dietary restrictions and include an entrée, side, and dessert.

Last year, MOWRI delivered 345,262 meals.