La familiar game, good food and a little friendly competition will come together for an important cause this fall as Meals on Wheels South Texas hosts its first major fundraiser in more than two decades.
Mahjong for Meals, presented by H-E-B, will take place Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Mitchell Event Center in Victoria, bringing the community together for a day of Mahjong, food, drinks, prizes and plenty of laughter, all while supporting local seniors.
For Meals on Wheels South Texas, the event comes at an important time. In 2025, the organization experienced a 43% reduction in government funding, creating a significant gap in the resources available to provide meals and services to seniors throughout the communities it serves.
Rather than allowing that challenge to slow its mission, the organization is looking for new ways to bring people together, build community partnerships and create sustainable sources of support.
“This is an important time for Meals on Wheels South Texas,” said Lenora Tollefson, Senior Director of Programs & Community Engagement. “We know Mahjong has been a part of the Victoria and Crossroads community for many years, and there are so many wonderful groups and players who already love the game.”
Tollefson said the organization hopes the event will bring longtime players together while also introducing new people to the work Meals on Wheels South Texas does every day.
“We hope Mahjong for Meals gives us an opportunity to bring those groups together, introduce more people to Meals on Wheels South Texas, and have some fun while helping us find new ways to support our mission,” she said.
Proceeds from the event will help Meals on Wheels South Texas continue its mission of helping seniors live connected and nourished lives. Beyond delivering meals, the organization provides an important connection to seniors who may otherwise experience isolation or have difficulty accessing the nutrition and support they need.
Organizers also hope this first Mahjong for Meals is only the beginning. The goal is to make the fundraiser a recurring Victoria tradition, one where friends can gather around the table, enjoy a game together and know that their afternoon of fun is helping neighbors in their own community.
Tollefson expressed gratitude to the many people and organizations who have helped bring the inaugural event to life, including the MOWSTX Board of Directors, Mahjong for Meals Committee, volunteers and sponsors.
“A very special thank you goes to H-E-B, our Presenting Sponsor, and to all of our generous sponsors for believing in this event and supporting our mission,” she said. “We are excited to see where this first event takes us and hope it becomes something our community looks forward to every year.”
Tickets are now on sale, and newcomers are welcome. No Mahjong experience is required. Guests can join MOWSTX for brunch or spend the afternoon enjoying Mahjong, food, drinks, prizes and fellowship.
Sometimes making a difference can begin with something as simple as taking a seat at the table.
Mahjong for Meals
Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026
Mitchell Event Center, Victoria
For tickets and additional information, visit www.mowstx.org or call Meals on Wheels South Texas at 361-576-2189.
Come play a hand, make a difference and help keep meals moving for seniors in our community.