For many clients, Meals on Wheels is more than just receiving a daily meal. Meals on Wheels of the Greater Lehigh Valley (MOWGLV) client, Rose, and her son, Gene, found that apart from the nutritious meal, it is the daily social connection of the volunteers that have meant the most.
Two years ago, during the height of the pandemic, Rose’s husband passed away. The passing of her husband was not easy for Rose; she did not want to leave her house or see other people. She became increasingly dependent on her son and daughter-in-law for meals, transportation, and groceries. Rose’s nutrition started to suffer because of her inability to prepare proper meals for herself. As it happened, Gene’s father-in-law is a MOWGLV volunteer and he suggested signing up Rose for meal delivery services. Gene states, “I thought it would be a great opportunity for my mother. She would be able to receive a good, nutritious meal and have a moment each day to meet and talk to other people”.
It has been almost one year since Rose first started receiving Meals on Wheels and she has not only seen an improvement in her health but her mood and daily social interactions as well. Rose explains, “My health is good. The meals are nutritious. I am happy that I can eat fresh ingredients instead of only store-bought, microwaveable meals”.
While Rose enjoys her daily meals, it is the daily visits from the volunteers that she looks forward to the most. “I am so grateful for each of them. They are so friendly and nice. I enjoy talking to them and getting to know them”. Gene is also grateful for the daily volunteer check-ins with his mom. Even though he lives only a few miles away, his work schedule as a teacher prevents him from being available during the days.
Both Gene and Rose could not be happier with the Meals on Wheels services, bringing both son and mother joy and peace of mind.