A total of $28,600 was raised for Meals on Wheels of Summerville during the third annual Dink & Deliver Pickleball Tournament on April 11-12, funding more than 9,500 no-cost meals for homebound residents as rising grocery costs, an aging population and increased isolation drive growing demand for meal delivery services across the Summerville area. More than 180 players competed in men’s, women’s and mixed divisions, along with a Minor League Pickleball-format team competition, during the two-day fundraiser at The Pickle Bar in Nexton.
Meals on Wheels of Summerville delivers more than 1,200 meals each week across 22 routes to seniors and other neighbors who cannot reliably shop for groceries or prepare meals because of age, illness, injury or disability. In addition to meals, volunteer drivers provide wellness checks and regular social contact for residents who may otherwise face isolation.
The organization receives no government funding and relies on community donations, fundraising events and volunteers to meet increasing need and help residents remain in their homes.
“Our neighbors have spent their lives building this community,” said Crystal Bovell, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Summerville. “The event proved, once again, that Summerville shows up for its own. Every serve, every rally, every point played helped ensure someone’s grandmother, father, or veteran next door can remain in their homes while receiving nutritious meals and personal connection.”
The next Dink & Deliver Pickleball Tournament is scheduled for April 10-11, 2027. Sponsorship and registration details will be announced later. To learn more or support Meals on Wheels of Summerville, visit mowsummerville.org.
Meals on Wheels of Summerville credited strong community support for the third annual Dink & Deliver Pickleball Tournament's success. McElveen Buick GMC served as the presenting sponsor.
Court sponsors were Baldoni, First Citizens Bank, Gilbert & Lee, Grub Shack, Home Mobile Vet, Home Telecom, Joye Law Firm, Lowcountry Orthopedics, Modern Woodmen of America, Republic Finance, Sew Fabulous, Taylor Charpia Real Estate Team, The Richards Family and Yellowstone Landscaping.
Rally sponsors were Bank of South Carolina, Berkeley Electric Trust, Charleston Paint Contractors and Senior Care Insurance.
Dink sponsors were Brighton Park Animal Hospital, Carolina Jordan-Lowcountry Home Specialists, First National Bank, RIDD, The Spa at Nexton, Tony Pope-State Farm and Tricounty Eye Care Associates.
The Pickle Bar and Pickleball Charleston played an integral role in tournament operations and helped deliver a successful fundraiser.