Some Meals on Wheels clients received a surprise guest with their hot meals on March 20. As part of its annual campaign to generate public awareness, recruit new volunteers and increase local fundraising, Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County enlisted the assistance of elected officials.
On Mayors for Meals Day, elected officials across the country showed their support for the Meals on Wheels program in their city by delivering meals to seniors and homebound residents, including all eight communities of Hamilton County.
“People appreciate you showing up and supporting them,” Westfield City Council President Jim Ake said after finishing his delivery list.
As a member of Westfield Rotary Club, Ake has assisted in delivering meals before.
“It’s all about connecting with the people,” he said. “It’s a great experience for the giver and receiver. They give as much as we give. They really make our day.”
Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County is a charitable, tax-exempt organization that provides meal delivery to elderly, disabled and homebound residents, regardless of age or income, who are unable to prepare a meal for themselves. Meals are prepared in state-approved healthcare facilities and designed by a certified registered dietitian. The primary goal is to help clients remain independently living in their own homes for as long as possible.
Volunteers deliver more than 52,000 meals each year to clients in all eight communities of Hamilton County. Drivers donate their time, vehicle and gas to extend a helping hand and check on the well-being of clients who receive meals.
“It’s a great way to give back to the community,” volunteer Greg Flood said.