LifeCare Alliance Continues Meal Delivery During Winter Storm

The Columbus nonprofit ensured clients received meals, even delivering McDonald's to one in need during a level 3 snow emergency.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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During a level 3 snow emergency in Columbus, Ohio, the nonprofit organization LifeCare Alliance continued its meal delivery services to clients, even arranging for McDonald's to be delivered to a client who did not have access to food due to the hazardous weather conditions. The organization worked through the harsh winter storm, checking on clients and responding creatively to their needs.

Why it matters

LifeCare Alliance's efforts to continue meal delivery during extreme winter weather highlights the organization's commitment to ensuring food security for vulnerable members of the Columbus community, even in the face of challenging conditions. This story underscores the importance of community-based organizations that provide essential services to those in need, especially the elderly and homebound, during emergencies.

The details

When Winter Storm Fern blanketed central Ohio in snow, LifeCare Alliance paused normal services but still worked to make sure no one went hungry. During the height of the storm, the organization's nutrition programs director, Leah Bunck, arranged for McDonald's to be delivered to a client who did not have access to food due to impassable roads and disrupted meal delivery. LifeCare Alliance continued checking on clients and responding creatively to their needs throughout the extreme weather event.

  • On January 27, LifeCare Alliance got out and delivered meals again despite the hazardous conditions.
  • On February 6, when heavy snow once again fell on central Ohio, the nonprofit continued its meal deliveries to clients.

The players

LifeCare Alliance

A Columbus nonprofit organization that delivers meals seven days a week, including on weekends and holidays, to support senior clients and others who have difficulty accessing food.

Leah Bunck

The nutrition programs director at LifeCare Alliance who arranged for McDonald's to be delivered to a client during the height of the winter storm.

Charles Gehring

The president and CEO of LifeCare Alliance, who said the organization distributes Blizzard Boxes, which are shelf-stable boxes of food to be used in emergencies when LifeCare Alliance temporarily pauses its services.

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What they’re saying

“In moments like these, we don't ask whether something is part of our usual process, we ask what our clients need to stay safe and healthy. Food insecurity doesn't pause for weather, and neither do we.”

— Leah Bunck, Nutrition Programs Director

“These deliveries are intended to help our clients stay safe and well-nourished during any type of severe winter weather event. When extreme cold and snow are expected, access to food can quickly become a challenge for many of the people we serve. By continuing meal delivery, we're helping ensure community members are prepared and can remain safely at home during the storm.”

— Leah Bunck, Nutrition Programs Director

What’s next

LifeCare Alliance encouraged local businesses to adopt a corporate route for 2026, providing employees the opportunity to volunteer together by delivering meals. For those interested in signing up to help, they can learn more at lifecarealliance.org/volunteer.

The takeaway

LifeCare Alliance's efforts to continue meal delivery during the winter storm highlight the vital role that community-based organizations play in ensuring food security and supporting vulnerable populations, even in the face of extreme weather conditions. This story underscores the importance of preparedness, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to serving those in need, regardless of the challenges posed by the elements.