Meals on Wheels
If you can't feed a hundred people,then just feed one.
Mother Teresa
What is it?
A meal delivery program to elderly people who request it. Each meal is paid for based on what the person can afford. No meal is over $2.50, and all meals that you will deliver are the same regardless of how much the person pays. Typically you will drive to about ten homes.
Who is the client?
The clients are usually elderly people who cannot cook for themselves. They have been referred to Meals On Wheels by a social worker, a church or a family member. They only receive lunches from this program. Some of the clients are on walkers or canes, others will meet you at the car.
What do I need to have?
- A car.
- Car insurance.
- Kind, caring concern.
How much time does it take?
You pick up the meals at the Smithfield Community Center. From there it will usually take you one and a half hours. Plan on a slightly longer delivery time on your first time out to locate addresses. Also, plan on attending monthly meetings with the other Meals On Wheels deliverers to discuss problems, concerns or good ideas.
When is it?
Monday through Friday. The meals are dropped off between 9:30 and 10 am and need to be delivered sometime before 1 pm. You can do them from 9:30-10:30 or 10-11 or whatever fits your schedule best.
What if…
I'm running late?
Call the Meals On Wheels office (592-0413) so that they know you are late but haven't forgotten. Sometimes the clients will call to find out where their meals are and Meals On Wheels can tell them you are on your way!
I know ahead of time that I have a test and can't make it on my designated day?
Call other people on the Meals On Wheels list to see if someone can cover for you. If you are worried, call the project coordinator.
Something comes up and I can't do my shift that day?
Try to contact the student coordinator Zach Tatum at zltatum@bsc.edu. If you can't reach that person, call the Service Learning office at 4993.
I decide I don't want to do Meals On Wheels anymore?
Inform our office (4993) and share the reasons with us. We will use the information to improve the program.