LIBERTY — A group from Six Mile, informally known as the “The Grumpy Old Men,” stepped up to the plate to help Pickens County Meals on Wheels raise the necessary funds to purchase the small wares — new pots, pans, and essential utensils — needed to furnish the kitchen of the newly renovated McKissick Center for Senior Wellness.

Under the leadership of PCMOW board member John Wade, the group set out with a noble goal of raising $7,500. Named the “Silver Spoons Campaign,” their efforts consisted of individual donations and appeals, a breakfast fundraiser, a boot drive at the intersection of S.C. Highways 133 and 183) conducted by chief Michael Barrett and members of the Six Mile Fire Department and a yard sale that netted more than $4,000. The Grumpy Old Men surpassed every expectation by raising a grand total of $11,461.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the results,” Wade said. “It was a group effort all the way. Personally, I know firsthand the benefits the program has on those they serve. They go far beyond the meal. The daily visit by volunteers provide seniors with something to look forward to each day.”

A plaque commemorating the names of all donors to this project will be placed at the McKissick Center. Notable members who helped with the project include Six Mile mayor Roy Stoddard, Rep. Gary Clary, former Rep. B.R. Skelton, Ken Ellison, Jimmy Hayes, B.J. Skelton, Wilt Stephens, “Dude” McAbee, Steve Howard, Eddie Durham, Tony Ellison, Charlie Yongue, Mac Bradshaw, Bud Alexander, Mike Alexander, Heuston Merck, Tom Smith, Carl Whitaker and Wade.

“Despite their name, The Grumpy Old Men are so much fun,” PCMOW executive director Meta Bowers said. “They have stepped up in such an incredible way. We are producing nearly 300 meals per day in our new kitchen. Their efforts will help serve our elderly and disabled neighbors for many years to come.”

Meals on Wheels began refurbishing the former Liberty Middle School kitchen and cafeteria in January. The McKissick Center for Senior Wellness officially opened on July 6. The McKissick Center is the home of the newly established PCMOW kitchen, its home-delivered meal program and Young at Heart dining and activity center.

Founded in 1980, Pickens County Meals on Wheels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that exists to combat the effects of hunger, loneliness and isolation on those living in Pickens County and provide a lifeline through the use of caring volunteers. Both Meals on Wheels and the Young at Heart dining and activity programs are about more than the meal. These services are crucial to helping people maintain their nutritional health, feel connected in the community and continue living safely in their own homes.

For many seniors, this is the only social contact they may have in a day. These services are a vital part of fighting isolation and helping older adults remain active and healthy. Community-based programs like Meals on Wheels provide are a cost-effective way of helping people “age in place.” To find out more about Meals on Wheels and the importance of the work it does in Pickens County, visit pcmow.org, call (864) 855-3770 ext. 303 or email info@pcmow.org.