Meals on Wheels: Ephrata & Cocalico

Serving Ephrata, Cocalico and the Surrounding Area

Welcome to the Meals on Wheels program, proudly provided by Community Hive (formerly Ephrata Area Social Services). We are honored to be a proud partner of Meals on Wheels of America, continuing a legacy of service in the Northern Lancaster community that spans over 54 years.

​Our mission is simple but vital: we aim to support our neighbors in need by enhancing their independence and health through nutritious meals and much-needed human connection.

​More Than Just a Meal

We believe that nourishment goes beyond the plate. Our Meals on Wheels – Ephrata & Cocalico program relies on the dedication of over 80 volunteers who help deliver meals directly to your door, fostering a sense of community and connection with every visit.

​Delivery Details

Our delivery service is designed to be seamless and reliable:

• Timing: You can expect your meal to be delivered between 10:30 am and 12:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
• The Process: Upon your first delivery, you will receive an insulated cooler bag containing both your hot and cold meals.
• Daily Routine: To ensure a smooth exchange, please place your cooler bag outside before 10:00 am each day so your driver can swap it with the next day’s delivery.
• The Driver Experience: Your volunteer delivery driver may knock or ring your doorbell upon arrival. You are welcome to greet them, but please ensure any pets are secured if you choose to open the door. If you do not answer, the driver will leave the meal in the insulated cooler bag.

Nutritious, Balanced Meals

We strive to provide healthy, tasty, and nutritious meals to support your well-being.

• COLD Meal: Includes a sandwich or salad, a side dish, fruit, a dessert, and your choice of juice and milk.
• HOT Meal: Includes one protein entree, a starch, and a vegetable.

Reheating Instructions

• Regular Meals: In the microwave, pull back a corner or puncture a hole in the cellophane of each compartment. Heat for 2 minutes. If the meal is not hot enough, continue heating for 30 seconds at a time.
• Special Diet Meals: Please place the meal in a separate, appropriate container before heating. Heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute at a time until you reach your desired temperature.

How to Get Started and Manage Your Service

We are here to support you. Whether you have questions, need to make dietary changes, or need to pause your service, our team is ready to assist.

• Office Hours: Our office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 am – 11:30 am.
• Contact Us: You can reach us at 717.733.0345 ext. 116. Please note: If you contact us after 11:00 am, please allow 24–48 hours for a response.
• Pausing Meals: If you need to stop meal deliveries for any reason, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance to avoid being charged.
• Dietary Changes: If you need to switch between regular meals and specialized diet meals, or have questions about your menu, please contact our office.

Weather and Holidays

Safety is our priority. In the event of winter weather, we post cancellations or delays on the WGAL website/station and our social media pages by 6:00 am. While we make every attempt to deliver, we must consider the safety of our volunteers and staff.

Please keep our holiday schedule handy. If you are in dire need of meals over a weekend or during a holiday closure, please call us 24 hours in advance to discuss arrangements.

Payment Options

• Financial Assistance: Residents over 60 who struggle with mobility and finances may qualify for assistance through the Lancaster County Office of Aging. Please contact them at 717.299.7979 to determine eligibility.
• Direct Payment: We currently accept direct payments from clients. Regular meals are $8.50 per day, and specialized/hospital meals are $9.50 per day.
• Convenience: For those interested in automatic monthly payments, we offer an ACH or credit card option. Please contact us to receive an ACH form.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your meals, delivery, or payment, please do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to serving you.

​Our Service Area

Community Hive (formerly Ephrata Area Social Services) primarily serves individuals and families residing within the Ephrata Area School District, the Cocalico School District, and surrounding areas.  

​Wondering if you qualify for Meals on Wheels through Community Hive? Give us a call! We work closely with neighboring organizations to ensure that those who need services receive them.

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Community Hive is formerly known as Ephrata Area Social Services.