Monica Hikes for Hunger

About Monica

Monica Reinoso, 58, is a local nurse with a soft spot in her heart for seniors. Also an avid hiker, Monica decided to combine two of her passions to help change her community.

Beginning on March 6th, Monica will hike the entire Pacific Crest Trail from the Mexico border until she reaches Canada. This 2,600-mile journey will last six months, but she won’t be alone. Monica is hiking with two other women: a trail friend who is raising funds for a domestic violence shelter in the Grand Caymans and a fellow nurse inspired by Monica’s passion. Her faithful companion Theo, a two-year-old yellow lab, will also join her on portions of the trail and family will follow along in a support van.

This is the longest hike Monica has ever undertaken, and she’s doing it for a very special purpose: to help feed hungry seniors.

“As a nurse, I’ve seen that our seniors are kind of pushed to the side or forgotten about, and I want to do my part to change that,” Monica said.

Monica aims to raise $50,000 for the Homage Meals on Wheels program to deliver nourishing meals to homebound seniors and people with disabilities throughout Snohomish County. The program also provides fresh fruit and vegetables, pet food, and an emergency food pack to keep in the pantry.

In addition to delivering food items, caring drivers conduct welfare checks to ensure seniors are safe in their homes. Drivers also provide referrals to other Homage programs, so seniors can receive the help they need to live independently.

“I like that Meals on Wheels is a community. It provides a connection for isolated seniors,” Monica shared.