Legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-30) to make it easier for New Jersey residents to support Meals on Wheels has passed the New Jersey Senate.

S-463 establishes the “Meals on Wheels in New Jersey Fund” and provides for a designation on the State gross income tax return that will permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to the fund.

“Meals on Wheels provides New Jersey’s seniors with more than just a nutritious meal and a friendly smile. These volunteers are an invaluable safeguard for those who may be at risk of injury or illness,” said Singer. “This nonprofit does great work to ensure the elderly stay happy and healthy in their own homes. As our aging population continues to grow, we need to expand opportunities to support organizations like Meals on Wheels.”

Under current law, taxpayers have the option to give a portion of their refund to benefit more than 25 nonprofit organizations, including the Cat and Dog Spay/Neuter Fund and cancer research. Senator Singer’s bill would add Meals on Wheels to the list of eligible nonprofits.

Any money collected under the fund established by Sen. Singer’s bill would specifically benefit local chapters of Meals on Wheels that operate in New Jersey.

8 out of 10 low income, food insecure seniors are not receiving the home-delivered meals they need, according to Meals on Wheels for America.

“Homebound seniors often experience extreme isolation and hunger,” Singer added. “Meals on Wheels is an extremely important resource for our State’s most vulnerable residents. I hope that we can get this bill signed into law, so that this fund can be created as soon as possible.”