By Debra McLaughlin
On a brisk February morning, a group of seventh and eighth grade students from Greenwich Country Day School stepped out of their classrooms and into the community, carrying bags filled with shelf-stable meal kits. Their mission: to ensure that clients of Meals-on-Wheels, Inc. of Greenwich had food in case of inclement weather late in the season. As winter continues, the preparedness of Meals-on-Wheels ensures that no client will go without sustenance during a storm. But just as importantly, the kindness of these students has left an imprint far beyond a single meal. Their small act of service planted a seed – one that will grow into a lifelong commitment to helping others, one meal, one moment, one connection at a time.
For the young students participating, it was more than just a school assignment; it was an experience that opened their eyes and hearts. Greenwich Country Day School has long been a pillar of support for Meals-on-Wheels clients from students delivering three times a week to providing emergency meals in advance of snow days.
Students appreciate the eye opening thoughts about what it must be like to be alone and worry about food. Volunteering at Meals-on-Wheels provides an opportunity to realize how important the work of Meals-on-Wheels is to clients and it serves as a powerful lesson in service for the younger generation.
For many, this was a moment of realization: community service is more than just fulfilling a requirement; it is a
bout empathy, responsibility, and understanding the struggles of others. Volunteers come away feeling like they did something meaningful. Food was exchanged for valuable perspectives.
