The need for a local Meals On Wheels program was determined in a survey by the Salisbury District of United Methodist Churches. A public meeting was held in August 1974 with a slide presentation by the High Point Meals On Wheels program. From this a planning committee was formed. In October, bylaws were established for Concord Meals On Wheels and a board of directors elected. Deliveries began on February 3, 1975 with eight clients and four drivers. Volunteers ran the program and meals were prepared by Cabarrus County Schools and Cabarrus Nursing Center.
Ms. Anna Pat Bailey (pictured with Executive Director Kimberly Strong) was recognized at the 40th Anniversary Celebration and Soup Sampling for being the first Executive Director of Cabarrus Meals on Wheels from 1974-1984.
For over 20 years, John and Cindy Barnhardt were a very integral part of Cabarrus Meals on Wheels. John was a local business owner who sat on the Board of Directors for several years. He was a vital part of the growth of Cabarrus Meals on Wheels and it was his dream to see that all seniors have a meal. After his passing in December 2006, his wife Cindy took over his seat on the Board and worked tirelessly to fulfill John’s dream. Before Cindy’s death in June 2008, she set up the John Barnhardt Fund for Meals on Wheels so their dream could live on.
You may donate to the John and Cindy Barnhardt Fund in memory of John and Cindy. Anyone may donate funds to the account by clicking on the donation button below or by designating “John Barnhardt Memorial Fund” in the note section of their check. Funds will be deposited into a separate account. Funds will be used to pay for sponsorship of clients who are unable to pay for their own meals, a cause that was very close to John’s heart, as well as operations of the organization.
Ms. Anna Pat Bailey, First Executive Director
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1974-1977
No Executive Director. Board and volunteer run.
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1977-1986
Anna Pat Bailey
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1986-1988
Mary Alice Garrison
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1988-1992
Connie Manchester
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1992-1997
Kareen Scott
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1997-1998
Danielle Hunter
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1998
Patricia LeNeave
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1999-2000
Sue Price
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2000-2003
Tammy Cochran
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2003-2006
Ann Davis
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2006-Present
Kimberly Strong
Cooking Through the Ages: The Story of Our Meal Prep and Kitchen Evolution
• 1975 – Meals were prepared by Cabarrus County Schools and Cabarrus Nursing Center.
• 1978 – Cabarrus Memorial Hospital began meal preparation.
• 2009 – Began preparing meals fresh daily in own kitchen in new location in Kannapolis.
By preparing our meals in-house within our own kitchen, we not only save money but also enjoy greater flexibility in crafting our menu. We undergo health department evaluations four times a year. Our exceptional kitchen staff ensures a clean and attentive environment, as evidenced by the impressive 100 ratings received.
• 2020 – Purchased new building in Concord with 3,000 SF commercial kitchen.
Operating from our previous kitchen in the Kannapolis location, we reached full capacity. The demand, as indicated by a waitlist, underscored the community’s need. With our new and spacious facility, equipped with a larger kitchen, we can now extend our services to provide over 1,000 meals daily.
We now even have the space to store pet food donations for our Pet Food Assistance Program.
1974
2005
January 1, 2024
50th Anniversary Logo
2024
Fueling Lives for 50 Years!
In 2024, Cabarrus Meals on Wheels (CMOW) celebrated a significant milestone—our 50th anniversary. Throughout the year, we extended our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff, compassionate volunteers, and committed board members for their invaluable contributions through events, videos, stories, and more!
Over the past five decades, our organization has grown and evolved, touching the lives of countless individuals through the provision of meals and companionship. The 50th Anniversary was a testament to the enduring commitment of everyone involved, and we took the moment to reflect on the impact we’ve made together. Thank you for 50 years of unwavering support, dedication, and compassion as we continue to serve our community with renewed vigor and a deep sense of purpose.
1974
Groovy Gala
October 19, 2024
Volunteer Stories
342 Penny Lane NE
Concord NC 28025