EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. (Oct. 5, 2025) — The City of Excelsior Springs, in partnership with the Excelsior Springs Parks, Recreation & Community Center (ES-PRCC), has launched the Meals and a Visit Program (MVP), a new initiative providing nutrition and personal connection to homebound residents within city limits.
Modeled after the national Meals on Wheels network, MVP delivers hot meals along with wellness check-ins from local volunteers. Participation is initially limited to residents inside city limits, with funding and resources for up to 30 individuals.
Jesse Hall, who oversees the project through the ES-PRCC Special Projects Team, said MVP was built on the community’s culture of volunteering and neighborly care. While the structure is similar to Meals on Wheels, the local version centers on companionship and partnerships, he said.
The project was made possible through the support of several key partners, including Molly McGovern, city manager, and her husband, John McGovern, who helped secure grant funding and gather backing for the initiative. Hall said their efforts, combined with those of Clay County Senior Services and the City Council, provided the resources needed to bring the program to life.
Initial funding for MVP comes from a one-time $21,000 grant provided by Clay County Senior Services, with additional support from the Community Foundation of Excelsior Springs and other local donors. To sustain the program beyond its startup phase, organizers plan to build ongoing community support through donations made via the ES Gives platform.
Hall said long-term success will depend on consistent community engagement and systems that can operate without losing the program’s personal touch. With continued support, he hopes to expand MVP to more residents.
The “visit” portion turns delivery into meaningful contact. Volunteers stop by every weekday, providing social interaction and a wellness check for those who may not have family nearby. “I live two hours away. Knowing someone sees mom every weekday is priceless,” said K.D., daughter of an MVP recipient who is under hospice care.
Volunteers can also offer light help with daily tasks. Organizers plan to add free courses and, when possible, help facilitate video calls with family during visits.
The Community Foundation of Excelsior Springs continues its mission of advancing local philanthropy. Through the ES Gives platform, supporters can make tax-deductible contributions to local projects and programs, including MVP. “We’re proud to partner with Excelsior Springs Parks and Rec and Community Center to make giving simple, local, and transparent,” said Kenny Manley, foundation president.
Molly McGovern said the city appreciates the continued partnership of Clay County Senior Services and the Community Foundation in strengthening programs that directly benefit Excelsior Springs residents.
Residents interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more can visit esgives.org or contact Jesse Hall with the ES-PRCC Special Projects Team at 816-826-6056 or jessehall@es-prcc.com.
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