“There are currently 65 volunteers and they are the most wonderful group of people. They are very easy to supervise because they want to be here,” Cindy commented. Most volunteers are retired community members, including some RiverWoods residents. In addition, social service agencies such as SUNCOM and Shared Support bring individuals to RiverWoods for an activity and then help deliver meals.
Currently, there are seven meal delivery routes and approximately 75 meals are delivered daily Monday through Friday. Cindy explained, “We are providing nutritious food to folks that need it. For instance, we had a referral from a daughter who was concerned that her mother was eating oatmeal three times a day. Good nutrition helps prevent poor health, so when we provide well-balanced meals, we are being proactive.”
The second vital aspect of the program is socialization. “Our volunteers might be the only person our clients see, so that’s important. If a client doesn’t come to the door and we are expecting them to, we call an emergency contact,” she explained. “So it’s also a safety check.”
Patty Schmieder has been a MOW volunteer for six years. “I enjoy talking to the clients and know many of them really look forward to company and conversation,” she stated.
The annual budget for the Meals on Wheels program is $75,000, and donations and grants are vital to keep it running. The food is purchased and prepared by the dietary department at RiverWoods. Geisinger Health System pays for the meal and River Valley Senior Providers Group covers the cost of the bags used to carry them. Clients choose from two different daily options and meals are adapted for special dietary needs. Each meal costs $3.95, with financial assistance offered to those who need it. No one is ever turned away for inability to pay, and Cindy works with low-income individuals on a case by case basis.
Cindy added, “We all know that eating healthy food is important, and when you live alone, you may not cook very well for yourself. We provide clients with a hot meal and it’s much better than a pre-packaged frozen dinner.”
Cindy Walker is a shining example of being called to serve, and Albright is proud that she is part of our family. Albright invites you to continue your mission by joining us at one of our six locations. Visit www.albrightcare.org for information on senior living, day programs, giving or volunteering.
