OILDALE, Calif. -- A local program aimed at feeding homebound seniors is getting some attention this month.

The board of supervisors proclaimed March 2010 as Meals on Wheels awareness month and also the North of the River Recreation and Park district has kicked off their March for Meals campaign.

Local businesses have teamed up with Meals on Wheels to bring in some much needed funds.

The program provides 165 hot meals to homebound seniors in our community daily. But there still many are on the waiting list and the March for Meals campaign is aimed to bring in more funds.

Last year the program served just under 40,000 meals here in Kern County.

There are between 80 to 100 people on the waiting list due to inadequate funding.

The growing senior population, along with poor economic conditions, is creating a growing need for the program.

Five days a week the team makes, prepares and delivers food to seniors who otherwise would have a difficult time making food themselves.

“It's very important to me to get a hot meal delivered to my door because I would not cook for myself very much,” said 98-year-old Wanda Stone.

The cost to prepare and deliver each meal is just over $7, which is below funding and donations per meal and organizers are asking for the community's help.

"It's more than a meal; it's the feeling of independence for many seniors. Having the daily contact with our drivers and also someone to check on them to make sure that they are doing OK each day," said Diane Hooper, Meals on Wheels coordinator.

During the month of March curtain business will donate a portion of their sales to the program.

On select days throughout the month, Rusty’s Pizza Parlor, Chili’s, Cruz Thru Express, Chuy’s, Sonic Drive-In and the Bakersfield Condors will donate portions of their sales to NOR Meals on Wheels.

All customers have to do is download a flyer and print the coupon and bring it to the business.

Their goal is to raise $19,375, enough to serve 10 seniors for a year and recruit five new volunteers.

For more information about Meals on Wheels or the March for Meals campaign, call 392-2016.