To the Editor,
I volunteer for Meals-on-Wheels, Inc. of Greenwich as a driver for a number of reasons. This can be a very flexible schedule. Maybe you’re not around in the winter? More time in the summer? Busy work life at certain times of the year? Well….do you have a few days a year? For less than two hours? All of these options can be accommodated with Meals-on-Wheels. We help weekly. We have the same delivery route. As a result, we get to know our clients. Despite traffic, etc., we can be done with our assignment in under two hours, and more often in one hour.
Meals-on-Wheels has a set structure and routine. Our assignments are clear. The leadership is consistent, responsive and appreciative. As a husband and wife team, we get to spend time together that has nothing to do with our jobs, family, or house. Imagine that- a fresh topic for discussion! We see different parts of the town we live in. We bring our ridiculous Portuguese water dogs, diva PoppyLooBlue and little giant ProntoHulahoopDave. They hang out the windows offering smiles, love looks and occasional howling duets with fire and police sirens. We also get to share the bounty of our cutting garden, and I create little bouquets for all of our clients. We can’t let ALL of the bunnies and deer eat everything, right? Somedays a storm is forecasted so we will also include blizzard bags with food staples – often decorated by the Brunswick after school community service club called BearHugs. Led by senior Sam Barsanti, young boys are told about what Meals-on-Wheels does and who it helps. Sometimes the boys will create seasonal cards too. I love seeing the cards decorating a windowsill when I’m dropping off food.
We help people who want to live at home to stay at home. We allow their family members a little peace of mind knowing they are getting fresh food on a regular basis. One friend had this service for her father. She felt it was incredibly important to know that her dad was still answering the door, hadn’t fallen, etc. While he was recovering from surgery, he couldn’t stand for long periods of time and cook for himself. All food delivered is specific to a client’s dietary needs. Isn’t that smart.
We are needed. You could be too. I hope you will consider volunteering with Meals-on-Wheels by calling 203-869-1213 or complete the volunteer application at mealsonwheelsofgreenwich.org/volunteer-application.
Ginny Rowan
Riverside
