NORTH KANSAS CITY, MO. (Oct. 7, 2026) – NKC Health and KC Shepherd’s Center are partnering to continue providing Meals on Wheels to approximately 180 older adults throughout the Northland, ensuring uninterrupted access to hot, nutritious meals and meaningful connections.
The partnership follows the announced closure of Northland Shepherd’s Center at the end of October. Financial support of the program is expected to continue through 2026 through Northland Shepherd’s Center, with KC Shepherd’s Center assuming responsibility for funding and program management beginning January 1, 2027.
“Meals on Wheels is about more than providing a nutritious meal. It’s about helping our neighbors remain independent and connected to their community,” said Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD, president and CEO of NKC Health. “We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with Northland Shepherd’s Center and look forward to continuing this important work with KC Shepherd’s Center.”
As the original Shepherd’s Center founded in 1972, KC Shepherd’s Center has decades of experience supporting older adults and helping them remain independent. “KC Shepherd’s Center brought Meals on Wheels to Kansas City in 1972 and has been delivering daily well checks and hot meals ever since. We are honored to continue that legacy in the Northland,” said Janet Baker, executive director of KC Shepherd’s Center.
“We know how much our clients value not only the meals they receive, but also the familiar faces and friendships that come with each delivery,” said Baker. “Our priority is to make this transition as seamless as possible while continuing the care and connections that make this program so meaningful.”
“We are grateful to Northland Shepherd’s Center for its many years of service and valued partnership,” Dr. Reintjes added. “Together with KC Shepherd’s Center and our dedicated volunteers, we look forward to building on that legacy and continuing to care for our Northland neighbors.”
About NKC Health
For nearly 70 years, NKC Health has worked to improve the health and well-being of patients and families across our region. We keep that promise every day by bringing innovative, comprehensive care that’s always delivered with kindness. From our Level II neonatal intensive care unit to award-winning, Joint Commission-accredited programs, each distinction reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate
healthcare. We provide a lifetime of care through leading cardiovascular, orthopedic, cancer, women’s and other specialty services. With more than 4,700 staff members — including over 600 dedicated physicians — along with specialists and caregivers across 35 locations and counting, we offer everything you need to live your healthiest life. We can’t wait to welcome you. For more information, visit nkchealth.org.
About KC Shepherd’s Center
KC Shepherd’s Center is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized by the IRS, serving more than 3,000 older adults each year. We serve socially isolated and
low-income adults age 60 and older who may lack easy access to healthy foods or the physical independence to engage in community activities. KC Shepherd’s Center serves Jackson, Platte, Cass and Clay counties in Missouri and Johnson County, Kansas.