ost people know Meals on Wheels delivers meals to those unable to prepare their own meals. What people often do not realize is that the meal service could assist them or a family member.
The majority of clients are seniors, but increasingly there are younger clients. The common factor is a need for assistance with meals. Sometimes clients participate on a short-term basis while they convalesce. In other cases, it is longer-term due to illness or frailty. Whatever their reason, the result is improved health and independence. In Ottawa, the Meals on Wheels program is called The King's Daughters Dinner Wagon.
A hot meal of soup, a main course, dessert and fruit or a salad is delivered each day over the noon-hour from Monday to Friday. The cost of the meal is $4.20. There is also a weekly frozen meal delivery which contains either seven entrees or five entrees with five soups or desserts. The cost of the package is $25. All clients pay for their meals.
People ask how such a substantial meal can be delivered at such a reasonable price. The main reason is that volunteers deliver the meals. The volunteers really enjoy their work because of the appreciation shown by the clients.
There are 640 volunteers working at Ottawa's Meals on Wheels. Most deliver once a week, every two weeksor monthly. Some volunteers take on the role of "spare" and help out when there is a cancellation.
Each volunteer works with a Volunteer Coordinator to determine a suitable schedule. A team does the delivery - a driver and a server. Some individuals would like to deliver but do not have a car. This is not a problem because servers are needed as well as drivers and new volunteers are always required. Orientation and training are provided.
Fund-raising and donations also help to make the meals affordable. The next major fund-raiser for Meals on Wheels in Ottawa is a duo piano benefit concert by Irene Woodburn Wright and Marlene Basarab. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this wonderful afternoon at the Unitarian Congregation, 30 Cleary Avenue Sunday, November 5, 2:30pm. Tickets are $15 or $10 for seniors and students.
Information on Meals on Wheels is available from office at 233-2424 or on the web site www.mealsonwheels-ottawa.org.
Remember, Meals on Wheels is available if you need assistance and that new volunteers and donors are always welcome and needed. Whether you want to receive meals or deliver them, you're sure to find Meals on Wheels provides a delicious and fulfilling service!