Meals-on-Wheels client Edward Dawson is proud of his rustic roots. A Navy veteran of World War II, Dawson, 85, has called Maypearl home all his life. His ranch was founded in 1896 – a fact that is part of his dining room décor – in wrought iron numbers on the wall. “It cost a dollar and fifty cents an acre back then,” Dawson said. “That’s on the deed.”

Dawson’s 100-acre farm could have been the initial backdrop for MGM’s 1939 classic movie, “The Wizard Of Oz,” complete with storm cellar, barns and a house even Aunt Em would envy. Dawson is part of the Meals-on-Wheels family of clients who continue to enjoy independent lifestyles thanks in part to the daily meal he receives.

The month of March has been set aside to honor Meals-on-Wheels clients like Ed Dawson – most of whom are part of the country’s "greatest generation.”

“March For Meals” is a national campaign, initiated by Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA), which seeks to raise awareness of senior hunger and to encourage action on the part of the local community. Senior nutrition programs across the United States, like Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties, promote “March For Meals” in their local communities through public events, partnerships with local businesses, volunteer recruitment and fundraising initiatives.

In the spirit of “March for Meals” and to end the month-long celebration, the organization will host “Remember When…a Fabulous 40’s Fling,” on Saturday, March 26. The event presented by Waxahachie Autoplex will be an evening of big band sounds, swing dancing, dinner, and entertainment at the Texas Motorplex located between Waxahachie and Ennis, and beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $100 each, or tables for $1,000. Sponsorships are also available at varying levels.

“We are excited about our upcoming benefit in celebrating those we serve—the ‘greatest generation’ as well as our volunteers, and the invaluable service they provide,” said Amy Jackson, director of development. “Part of the campaign is to raise more awareness about senior hunger, recruit more volunteers, and raise money to help those in our community,” she added.

Meals-on-Wheels is a community benefit organization serving the homebound elderly and disabled residents throughout Johnson and Ellis Counties. For more information about the “March For Meals” events or about Meals-on-Wheels services, please contact Meals-on-Wheels at 972-351-9943 and online at www.servingthechildrenofyesterday.org. For more information on the 2011 “March For Meals” campaign please contact Meals on Wheels Association of America at www.mowaa.org.

Comment by Jane Byers-Angle received 3/22/11 9:33pm

I enjoyed seeing Ed Dawson in pictures and enjoyed reading the meals on wheels article. Keep up the good work. Ed, you take a darn handsome picture.