Fresh Meals On Wheels of Sheboygan County has become a lifeline for nearly 2,000 homebound seniors and older adults every week. This independent nonprofit is responsible for medically tailored meals that meet each recipient’s unique dietary needs. Under the leadership of CEO Allison Laine Thompson and Kitchen Manager Alyssa Miller, the program ensures that freshly prepared meals reach every corner of the county on time and in perfect condition.
When Chef Nate and Joe Anderson from Anderson Food Service (Cambro’s Wisconsin rep group) visited Fresh Meals On Wheels, they set out to learn how the Cambro Elements Mobile Series shelving installed in 2012 via Streich Equipment in Wausau, WI, had held up under the demands of a fast-paced meal delivery operation. It didn’t take long to discover why this shelving has become indispensable to the organization.
“No rust, ever! And minimal replacement costs.”
Since 2012, the Elements Mobile Series shelving has stood up to high volumes and constant use without a hint of corrosion. For a non-profit relying on every donated dollar, the fact that these units require virtually no maintenance or replacement is a game-changer.
“Being able to clean it so easily is phenomenal.”
Handling close to 2,000 meals each week means that cleanliness is non-negotiable. Food safety guidelines demand spotless storage surfaces, and Cambro’s shelving wipes down in seconds, no scrubbing, no rust concerns, just a sanitary surface that’s ready for the next batch.
“They are extremely mobile and easily movable.”
Every meal’s journey from prep to load-out often involves tight hallways, cold storage rooms, and hot garage areas in summer. The durable casters and lightweight construction allow staff to roll full racks in and out of coolers, freezers, and hot storage garages without straining themselves or risking damage to meals.
“We love how easy it is to adjust individual shelf heights, as needed, to accommodate deliveries, various food box storage, and prepared meals.”
Flexibility is key when storing an array of item sizes, from small protein portions to large insulated meal boxes. With the Elements Mobile Series, Fresh Meals On Wheels can customize each shelf’s height in seconds, no tools required, so that every meal container fits perfectly without wasted space.
“Being able to use Cambro shelving in a freezer or cooler or even in our hot storage garage in the summer is very convenient. We don’t have to worry about the environment in which we’re using our shelving. It’s good to go everywhere.”
Unlike metal racks that may warp, rust, or weaken under extreme temperature swings, Cambro’s composite shelving thrives in any environment. From sub-zero cooler rooms to 90°F summer heat, the shelving remains structurally sound and ready for wherever the operation demands.
Beyond the logistical advantages, shelving isn’t just a behind-the-scenes detail for Fresh Meals On Wheels, it’s part of what makes their mission possible. When every element, kitchen to curb, is optimized for efficiency and safety, the team can focus on what matters most: delivering nutritious meals to those who need them most.
Author: Felix Bazgan is the Director of Digital Marketing at Cambro.
