Winter on Mackinac Island, where Meals on Snowmobiles volunteers travel snowy routes to deliver warm meals to elderly and homebound residents. Photo credit: John Cadotte, cadottography
When winter settles in on Mackinac Island, getting from one place to another takes extra effort. For some residents, it can become a real challenge. Each year, Ste. Anne’s Church steps in with a program that has become a quiet winter essential for the community: Meals on Snowmobiles.
From January through mid March, hot meals are prepared and delivered every Tuesday and Thursday to approximately 50 elderly or homebound residents across Mackinac Island. The program exists to ensure that neighbors who may struggle to leave their homes during the winter months still receive nutritious, healthy meals and meaningful human connection.
Meeting a Winter Need
Meals on Snowmobiles was created in the early 2000’s to care for Island residents during the coldest months of the year, when winter conditions can make daily tasks more difficult. Beyond nourishment, the program provides consistency, reassurance, and a familiar face at the door.
Those who receive meals regularly share how much the program means to them. End of season surveys consistently reflect deep gratitude. One recipient shared that she looks forward to Meals on Snowmobiles every year. Living alone during the winter months, being greeted by a volunteer with a warm, healthy meal delivered directly to her door is something she finds especially meaningful.
Lemon pepper whitefish, rice pilaf, buttered peas and carrots, homemade white bread roll, side salad and blueberry short cake. Photo credit: John Cadotte, cadottography
Sweet and sour pork over white rice, steamed vegetables, homemade johnny cakes, side salad and mocha almond ice cream. Photo credit: John Cadotte, cadottography
Powered by Volunteers
Volunteers are the heart of Meals on Snowmobiles. Each delivery day begins with volunteers working together to prepare meals at the church. Volunteer chef John Cadotte leads the kitchen alongside other volunteers to ensure meals are thoughtfully prepared and ready for delivery.
Once meals are packed, volunteers get ready for delivery. One volunteer walks to homes located close to the church, while a team of two volunteers delivers meals to the rest of the Island by snowmobile. This system allows the program to reach residents safely and efficiently, even in challenging winter conditions.
An early morning view of Ste. Anne’s Church as volunteer chef John Cadotte arrives to prepare meals for Meals on Snowmobiles. Photo credit: John Cadotte, cadottography
A Community Effort
Meals on Snowmobiles operates without any government funding. The program is sustained through generous community support and volunteer commitment. Ste. Anne’s Church is thankful to receive a grant from the Mackinac Island Community Foundation, which helps make the program possible each winter.
The continued success of Meals on Snowmobiles reflects the strength of the Mackinac Island community and its willingness to care for one another during the most demanding season of the year.
More Than a Meal
For those receiving meals, the program offers warmth, nourishment, and connection during a time when isolation can be especially felt. For volunteers, it provides a meaningful way to serve neighbors and make a tangible difference.
As winter continues, snowmobiles will follow familiar routes, meals will arrive warm, and Ste. Anne’s Church Meals on Snowmobiles will continue to quietly embody the compassion and care that define life on Mackinac Island.
This winter lifeline is made possible through faith, service, and community care. To donate, volunteer, or learn more about Meals on Snowmobiles, visit the Ste. Anne’s Church website.
The MIFP Team
