Meals-on-Wheels Kicks Off Kitchen Campaign with Event

Despite blustering winds and cooler temperatures, revelers came out in record numbers to support Meals-on-Wheels “Night Under the Stars”  Kickoff Celebration for the non-profit organization’s Kitchen Campaign, Saturday, March 28 at the TXI Railport in Midlothian. The event was held in at the site where the new multi-use facility will be built, centrally located in the heart of Johnson and Ellis Counties.

More than 300 supporters attended the event featuring live entertainment provided by Highway 80 West, a local country western band featuring drummer and the City of Cleburne’s assistant city manager Rick Holden, who also served as master of ceremonies.  Among those in attendance was Congressman Joe Barton, who serves as Meals-on-Wheels’ honorary chair of the “Kitchen Cabinet.” Proud to be an integral part of the kitchen campaign, Barton touted the organization’s unwavering ability to serve more than 750 elderly and disabled clients hot lunches seven days a week.

As Congressman Barton addressed the crowd, he stated, "You did not have to come here tonight.  You chose to come here to support the Meals-on-Wheels because you feel their mission is important."  The Joe Barton Family Foundation gave the lead gift toward the Kitchen Campaign of $500,000.  The Joe Barton Family Foundation chose to support the Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties because of their commitment to the elderly and disabled citizens in these counties.

“I am extremely pleased that the Family Foundation has partnered with the Meals-on-Wheels in their effort to build a regional kitchen facility.  This facility will be able to serve the growing needs of elderly citizens in theses counties for years to come.  I feel that it is truly beneficial to keep people in their own homes,” he continued. 

Supporters from all of the local communities and around North Central Texas contributed to the over whelming success of this event.  The event was underwritten by The Joe Barton Family Foundation, TXI, Walmart Distribution Center, Pete Durant & Associates, and XTO Energy, along with many table sponsors and attendees. 

“But this is just the beginning,” said Amy Jackson, director of development.  “We have only raised $750,000 of our $3 million goal!”

Past Ellis County Benefit BBQ Events

2008 3rd Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ
The Meals-on-Wheels 3rd Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ, held March 29  at the Loma Linda Events Pavilion in Rockett was a great success, raising over $25,000! “The support shown from the community to make this event possible was incredible!” said Marion Reynolds, Board member and event Chairperson. Read more...

2007 2nd Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ
The Meals-on-Wheels 2nd Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ, held March 31, 2007, at the Loma Linda Events Pavilion in Rockett, exceeded all expectations! “The support shown, from donors, volunteers, sponsors and everyone involved was truly incredible!” said Marion Reynolds, Board member and event Chairperson. Read more...

2006 1st Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ
The Meals-on-Wheels 1st Annual Ellis County Benefit BBQ, held March 25th at the Waxahachie National Guard Armory, was a huge success! “The monies raised by the event to support Meals-on-Wheels exceeded $5,000,” said Todd Little, Ellis County Advisory Council Chairman. “The support shown, from donors, volunteers, sponsors and everyone involved was truly incredible! This was the first of many more events to come,” Little added. Read more...