Celebrating five years in 2024, The Diner Vancouver is redefining what a Meals on Wheels dining experience can be. Learn how the Meals on Wheels People restaurant is combating food insecurity and social isolation among older adults.
In a world where 80% of restaurants never make it past five years, The Diner Vancouver in Washington has defied the odds and celebrated its fifth anniversary earlier this year. But this restaurant is more than just a place to enjoy a delicious meal — it’s a shining example of how innovation, resilience, and community can come together to make a real difference.
For many, Meals on Wheels People conjures images of home-delivered meals or senior center lunches. But not everyone who craves company always wants to socialize in a senior center setting. “We heard some folks say it was just too much of a stigma to go,” says MOWP CEO Suzanne Washington. “So we thought let’s try something different — maybe a type of restaurant.”
When The Diner opened its doors in 2019, it was a bold reimagining of what a Meals on Wheels dining experience could be. This classic 1950s-style restaurant is designed with accessibility in mind — from bar stools with added back support to coffee cups carefully shaped to accommodate those with arthritis and silverware with extra heft for guests with less feeling in their fingers — but there’s no institutional atmosphere whatsoever.
Step inside, and you’re immediately transported to a vibrant, welcoming space that feels just like any other beloved local diner. Families are gathered around booths, and a group of local business people are hunkered over laptops. And at the classic diner counter, a warm smile from the server greets MOWP participants as they settle in for a healthy, nourishing meal — paying only what they can afford. It’s an innovative dining experience where everyone is welcome.
This intergenerational mingling, dignity of choice, and flexibility of food options are at the heart of The Diner’s magic. Here, the dividing lines between young and old seem to dissolve, creating a true community hub where people from all walks of life can break bread — or eat avocado toast — together.
The Diner’s commitment to community doesn’t stop here. We’ve forged partnerships with local providers like Relevant Coffee and source fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. The public can enjoy a great meal while supporting Meals on Wheels People: In lieu of accepting tips, The Diner simply asks that generous guests make a donation. We provide our staff a living wage, excellent health and retirement benefits, and consistent schedules to provide stability and a sense of community.
“This restaurant really is the first of its kind in the nation,” Suzanne says.
Rising from the Pandemic
Of course, The Diner’s journey has not been without its challenges. During the height of the pandemic, the restaurant was forced to pivot to a take-out service. Reopening in July 2022 was a testament to the resilience of the staff, as they adapted to the increased need for both meals and social interaction among older adults, which had only grown more acute. In 2023, The Diner was named to Eater Portland’s “Finest Diners in Portland and Beyond” list and Willamette Week’s “Best of Portland 2023” list. Today, The Diner draws a steady stream of regulars whose generosity sometimes leaves the team in heartwarming awe — like the time a table left a $500 donation to support MOWP’s mission.
One MOWP participant, Lynne, shared how The Diner has become a cherished part of her life: “There are about 10 of us, though not all of us can come each week. We love the staff. They are so nice to us. We all laugh pretty loud, so it’s always a good time with great food. Thank you for giving us our dignity since not all of us can afford a meal out anymore.”
Another success story lies in the introduction and growth of the Diners Club, which Meals on Wheels People launched in March 2023. Inspired by The Diner’s model, Diners Club partners with local restaurants, particularly those providing ethnically diverse meal options or serving rural areas, to offer older adults even more culturally diverse culinary choices, flexible dining hours, and intergenerational socializing. Portland’s XLB and Miss Delta have signed up to be part of the Diners Club program, and efforts are ongoing to recruit more restaurants and diners into the program.
The Next Course
The Diner and Diners Club represent bold innovations that are redefining how Meals on Wheels People nourishes the community. By providing dignified dining experiences, increasing access to nutritious meals, and fostering meaningful social connections, these programs don’t just fill bellies — they provide independence and decrease health risks associated with isolation and loneliness as well.
As we celebrate the successes of The Diner and look forward to the continued growth of Diners Club, we’re reminded that this is just the beginning. There is still so much more work to be done to combat food insecurity, social isolation, and lack of access for older adults in our community. Your support makes these vital programs possible. Donate now to help Meals on Wheels People continue cooking up innovative solutions to ensure no senior is left behind.
