In a world that often feels too fast and too disconnected, the SUN (Seniors United for Nutrition) Program in Avoca, WI is a quiet reminder of the beauty in small, consistent acts of care. For decades, SUN has provided more than just meals—it has served companionship, nourishment, and reassurance to seniors across Iowa and Lafayette Counties in Wisconsin.
The Iowa county SUN (Seniors United for Nutrition) program was established to provide meals to seniors in Iowa and Lafayette counties in Wisconsin. The program was supported by federal, state, and county funding, as well as grants and donations, and its services were recently incorporated into the respective county’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) offices in June 2025, helping rural communities create sustainable local meal support systems.
This year, the program entered a new chapter as its management officially transitioned under the care of Iowa County. While the structure behind the scenes has shifted, the heart of SUN remains the same: supporting seniors 60 and older with warm meals and warm connections.
The Seniors United for Nutrition (SUN) Program in Avoca, WI, is a private non-profit organization financially supported in part by several federal, local and private organizations. It has become a vital part of Iowa County’s commitment to supporting its senior residents.
Originally founded in the late 1970s through federal efforts under the Older Americans Act, SUN began as a way to provide nutritious meals to seniors in both congregate settings and through home delivery. Now officially operated by Iowa County, the SUN Program continues its mission with the help of community volunteers and funding from various sources.
There is truly a lot of work and love put into ensuring these amazing individuals get great meals Mon-Fri!
One Client’s Testimony:
“I’m going to start off by saying I want to personally thank the program “ Meals On Wheels”. Not only are the workers taking their time out of their schedule to volunteer in their community, but they provide relief and hope. They do much more than delivering a hot meal to the elderly and disabled. They put a smile on the faces of those clients that NEVER get to see a visitor or any family. No one checks on them, you would not believe the impact of a friendly face, smile, hello and small conversation. It truly brightened their day! A hot meal for someone who is unable to cook for themselves, truly makes a huge difference. Delivering food every day is also like a wellness check. If you have a mother, father, friend or anyone you know receiving the support, please thank all the volunteers. They do more than you think :)” -Teresa
A Volunteer’s Perspective:
As a new volunteer for SUN, I’ve discovered the joy that comes from giving back—especially when I get to share the experience with my toddler. My first time making the deliveries alone with my little one, we walked up to one house and I went to the completely wrong door! I had already felt nervous about messing up and there I was messing up. However the client was super amazing about it, she blessed me on my way out, telling me to have an amazing rest of the day. I was reminded we all make mistakes, it is how we handle them or what we learn from them that truly matters. Let’s just note, I have not gone to the wrong door since.
Together, my son and I deliver meals and brighten people’s day, all while learning the value of service, compassion, and community. It’s a beautiful reminder that even small acts can have a lasting impact. On the third day that we were delivering meals, my little 2 yr old who is just really learning to talk, got up and after breakfast said ”Come mama, waving his hand to the door”. I asked, “Are you ready to deliver some yummy meals to our new friends”? He said “ Yeah”… and started clapping his hands then said “Two” as he was trying to hold up 2 fingers. It was the sweetest thing and my mama heart just melt. I was already making an impact on his little mind and he was getting excited about not only riding in the car but seeing the lovely people we get the privilege of serving meals to.
This service has not only become a way to lend a hand, but a meaningful learning opportunity for my child, who will soon truly begin to understand that we can help others with simple, thoughtful actions. Volunteering alongside my toddler has made this experience even more fulfilling. I wake up each day now ready to see who I get to greet with a smile.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re a parent looking for a way to involve your child in something meaningful or someone seeking to make a difference, the SUN Program offers a rewarding opportunity to serve. Every meal delivered is a moment of connection and care.
If you’re interested in volunteering or supporting the program, please call the Iowa County SUN office at (608) 930‑9845.
By Heather Syvertson
