Mayor Todd Gloria of San Diego was named Community Champion for Seniors by Meals on Wheels San Diego County, receiving honors for his pivotal role in supporting the nonprofit during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This accolade celebrates Mayor Gloria's dedication to helping the organization continue its six-decade mission of providing meals to vulnerable seniors in the region. In a statement obtained by the organization's news release, Gloria expressed his honor and committed to further prioritizing senior welfare in his policies and resource allocation.

The presentation of the award aligns with the kickoff of the 22nd annual Champions Week by Meals on Wheels, an effort aimed at increasing the visibility of the plight of seniors dealing with hunger and isolation. According to the event statement, the mayor has been a staunch advocate for the senior community, having previously served on the City Council starting in 2008 and later in the state Assembly where he was instrumental in securing funding for senior services across California.

Brent Wakefield, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels San Diego County, praised Mayor Gloria for his long-standing support which has been instrumental at both the local and state levels. "Mayor Gloria has been a champion of seniors at both the local and state level for many years now," Wakefield said in the same release, illustrating the mayor's role in ensuring they could continue reaching isolated seniors during the pandemic's peak.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Mayor Gloria utilized his position to coordinate essential resources such as bottled water and personal protective equipment for seniors. The mayor initiated the inaugural Champions Week back in 2021 to support Meals on Wheels' volunteer-driven efforts and boost public awareness – a gesture that resonates with the nonprofit's mission. Mayor Gloria told the organization's spokesperson, commemorating the invaluable service Meals on Wheels contributes to the San Diego community.