Meals on wheels
In talking recently to Barb Nadeau fromVoluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois (vacdk.com),she mentioned that the two most needed items for seniors are transportation and nutrition. ( see The Dietary Guidelines for Americans Can Help You Eat Healthy To Be Healthy).
And when we are discussing nutrition, Meals on Wheels fits the bill. The meals are cooked fresh daily and guaranteed to arrive at a temp of 200 degrees or greater. And for those with volunteer hearts, volunteers are always needed!
Drivers to deliver the meals are at a premium as well as people to decorate meal bags, make calls to recruit volunteers and pack meal bags and/or boxes.
Here are some well spoken words from a Plano Meals on Wheels driver, Stephanie Schaming:
“I never even knew Meals on wheels existed until many years ago we were in Pittsburgh, visiting with Steve’s mom who was in her 80’s then and Steve’s sister had set it up for her to get meals delivered. I remember thinking then, whenever I retire this is something I’d like to do. I’ve now been doing it for 9 years. One of the things I think is so good about having this service is that it helps people remain in their homes rather than having to go to assisted living. Assisted living is great but some people aren’t in need of that much care yet and just need proper nutrition provided for them. It also provides them with a friendly face to see and chat with for a few minutes and we can do a quick ‘wellness check’ by talking with them. If we notice some one seems more depressed or is complaining about pain or no longer wants to talk, it gives us a heads up and we report back so a client advocate can check in with that person and/or their family.
My goal when I see each person is to be an encourager, greet them with a smile and leave with a smile. Steve and I both have met people who just want to talk.
Not only have I made friends with those people who heat the meals and do all of the ‘behind the scene’ things, but I’ve made a personal connection with many of the clients, remembering bits of things they’ve shared about family, sports, upcoming events, etc. I hope it lets them know that even though they may be alone, people think about them and are interested in them. Meeting family members has also made me realize just what a small world it is. There have been clients who’ve known some of my extended family. There’s others whose grandkids went to school with my kids and it makes an instant connection.
It gives me a sense of purpose and keeps my priorities in check. I’m greatly blessed and want to share this tiny bit of time to put a smile on someone’s face! There have been many ‘God moments’ that have happened over the years, and for each one I’m grateful. Grateful that God placed each one of them in my life.”
If you want more information about Meals on Wheels or would like to volunteer, you can contact: