By Debra McLaughlin
This week in Glenville, Meals-on-Wheels of Greenwich clients welcomed not only nutritious meals but also a new volunteer team: Jim and Kathi Mullins.
For years, Jim faithfully delivered meals with his longtime partner, John Sudell. When John recently retired, Jim faced the bittersweet thought of continuing his route without him. But instead of letting him go it alone, Jim’s wife, Kathi, stepped right in to ride along and keep the tradition alive.
“It’s a small thing for us, but it means so much to the people we see,” Kathi said with a smile as she joined Jim for her very first route.
Meals that Matter
Meals-on-Wheels of Greenwich delivers approximately 20,000 meals each year, helping seniors, people with disabilities, and others who can’t easily shop or cook for themselves. But the program provides more than just food. A recent survey revealed that 91% of clients rated the friendliness of drivers as excellent, while 88% said Meals-on-Wheels has helped them remain independent in their own homes.
Those numbers reflect what the Mullinses already know: it’s not just the meal that matters, it’s the human connection. A warm smile, a few kind words, and the reassurance that someone cares can brighten a client’s entire day.
Jim stated, “It’s no small thing. The folks we visit quickly become family. They count on us, they wait for us to arrive and spend time chatting. It’s all good!”
Powered by Volunteers
The Mullinses are now part of a network of more than 75 dedicated volunteer drivers who deliver meals throughout Greenwich every weekday. The program is simple and accessible — there are no income restrictions, no medical referrals, and no complicated paperwork required. It’s neighbors helping neighbors, one meal at a time.
An Invitation to Join
The Mullins family’s story is a reminder that it doesn’t take grand gestures to make a difference. Sometimes, it’s just a couple of hours a week, a friendly face, and a willing heart.
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a volunteer, visit mealsonwheelsofgreenwich.org or call 203-869-1312.
Because what Meals-on-Wheels delivers is more than a meal — it’s kindness, independence, and community.
