Venice Area Mobile Meals
Serving Our Community Since 1969
A proud, independent nonprofit delivering nutritious meals and meaningful connection to homebound neighbors in the Greater Venice, Florida area for over five decades.
Get Meals DeliveredOur History
Our Story
Venice Area Mobile Meals, Inc. is a proud, independent, non-profit organization. Founded by a group of dedicated citizens led by Edward Cruse, the program began by preparing meals at St. Martha's Church in Sarasota and distributing them from Venice-Nokomis United Methodist Church.
In 1978, the service officially became Venice Area Mobile Meals, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. For over five decades, we have provided nutritious meals six days a week, 52 weeks a year — including holidays — to individuals unable to prepare meals due to physical or mental challenges.
Our entirely volunteer-run organization is guided by an 11-member Board of Directors and supported by a dedicated team of over 190 volunteers, including route directors, drivers, assistants, and fundraising participants across 16 routes.
1969
Founded by Edward Cruse and dedicated citizens
1978
Officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
190+
Active volunteers across 16 delivery routes
2M+
Meals delivered since our founding
Who We Are
Independent, Community-Funded & Volunteer-Run
Venice Area Mobile Meals operates independently and is not affiliated with the Meals on Wheels Association of America, nor does it receive funding from government entities. Our success relies entirely on the generosity of our community.
Proudly Independent
We are not affiliated with any national organization and receive no government funding. Every decision we make is driven by the needs of our local community.
100% Volunteer-Run
From our Board of Directors to our delivery drivers, every role is filled by dedicated volunteers who give their time and talent to serve their neighbors.
Community-Supported
Our success relies on the generosity of individuals, community groups, foundations, and local businesses who believe in our mission of nourishment and connection.
Leadership
Our Board of Directors
Venice Area Mobile Meals is guided by an 11-member Board of Directors — dedicated community members who give their expertise and leadership to ensure we serve those in need.
Chris Steins
President
Vacant
Vice-President
Judy Munoz
Secretary
Susan Widen
CFO
Bobbie Gilbert
Treasurer
Mary Anderson
Asst. Treasurer
Robert Sloboda
Public Relations
Tina Farrell
Executive Office Manager
Tommy Nolan
Technology Officer
John Janikas
Transportation Officer
David Lieving
Information Officer
Get Involved
Be Part of Something Meaningful
Thanks to the unwavering support of our community, we have delivered over 2 million meals since our founding. You can be part of this legacy — whether you need a meal, want to volunteer, or feel called to give.
Thank You to These Supporting Organizations
