It all started with ten meals
In 2000, the «Miss Stone» social center—named after the former missionary Ellen Stone—was established in Strumica (North Macedonia). Even back then, the idea was to be there for people in need. It’s amazing to see how much has grown since then—and it stands as an impressive testament to tireless dedication and genuine generosity of spirit.
When the idea of a meal delivery service for people in need was put into practice in 2001, there were just ten people who were provided with hot meals in this way. And even this was met with unexpected resistance: Time and again, those in charge were asked, «If not even my own children want to care for me anymore—why are you doing it?» A question that those in charge could hardly have answered without referring to the foundation of faith, hope, and love.
Growing Hardship – Growing Work
Ten years later, the work of the «Miss Stone Center» had gained recognition—and there were already well over 100 people receiving a hot meal delivered to their homes five times a week. Today, 25 years after the first hot meal was delivered, 220 people are being served by «Meals on Wheels.».
Amazing Reliability
The fact that our work has never had to be interrupted for even a single day throughout all these years—despite COVID-19, problems with the water supply, and financial and staffing challenges—is anything but a given. Christina Cekov writes: «God has carried us through many difficult times and countless challenges. Our thanks go first and foremost to Him—and also to everyone who has supported us in any way, thereby making this ministry possible in the first place.» A statement that, however, requires an addition: For without the impressive and inspiring dedication of the staff under the leadership of Martin Konev, the work would not exist in its current form. What they regard as their mission and calling is stronger than the difficulties.
Expansion of the Work
For some time now, the work has also included distributing an additional 50 hot meals to those in need in the nearby small town of Radovish. These meals are also prepared day after day in the kitchen of the «Miss Stone Center.» A home care project has also been established. About 30 people who are barely able—or no longer able at all—to leave their homes receive reliable household assistance and care, as long as their needs do not require the services of a doctor. And sometimes, those in charge also organize firewood, clothing, or other forms of practical assistance.
A Difficult Balancing Act
As a result of the fact that many people are leaving North Macedonia to find better-paying jobs elsewhere, it has become very difficult to maintain a stable workforce. And finding new, qualified staff is proving to be an ever-greater challenge. This is because paying higher salaries carries the risk of throwing the entire project’s budget out of balance. The 2027 budget allocates approximately EUR 210,000 for «Meals on Wheels» and hot meals in Radovish. Incidentally, more than 40% of this amount is raised within the country itself—including in the form of in-kind donations. What may seem like a very large sum—and indeed is a considerable amount—is put into perspective, however, when one considers that around 70,000 meals are prepared each year. 3 euros for a day’s care, food, and hope—that’s a fair price.
Source: Christina Cekov, Strumica
«Meals on Wheels» – 25 Years of Hope in Strumica
What began in 2001 with 10 hot meals has now become a lifeline for 220 elderly and vulnerable people in Strumica, as well as 50 others in Radoviš, North Macedonia—a region with no nursing homes at all. Five times a week, the Miss Stone Center delivers hot meals, provides companionship, arranges doctor’s visits and medication, and—as part of its home care project—also provides care for about 30 people. Despite the pandemic, water shortages, and staff shortages, the work has never been interrupted. Around 70,000 meals are planned for 2027—just 3 euros provides a day’s worth of food and hope.
Be part of this 25-year success story—donate now to provide a warm meal in Strumica.
