Newtrax, the Ramsey County TCAP, began an innovative meal delivery service this fall, and was featured in the local news (A different sort of meals on wheels, White Bear News, Nov. 4, 2020). Weekly delivery of takeout meals from local restaurants to seniors and families in need is a triple-win for the participating restaurants, customers, and Newtrax itself, helping to meet needs caused by the pandemic.
"Credit for the new program goes to Newtrax Transportation Coordinator Scott Olson. He got the idea after working with Loaves and Fishes to deliver 800,000 meals to families impacted by the pandemic through 28 YMCAs. "We thought, 'How do we do something here with prepared meals to stimulate growth with restaurants and provide meals for seniors in need?'" Olson said. 'Local restaurants get an extra boost and we create consistent shifts for Newtrax drivers.'"
With financial support from the cities of White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi, Vadnais Heights, Gem Lake, and White Bear Township as well as from local community foundations, 14 restaurants--guaranteed profitable pricing--participate in the program, which has delivered more than 8,800 meals to date. Residents are also donating to the growing program to pay-it-forward.
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