MEALS ON WHEELS

ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS

Meals on Wheels is a nationwide network of community-based, non-profit programs dedicated to providing seniors in their communities with the support that enables them to remain living in their own homes, where they want to be. This support is typically a nutritious meal, a friendly visit and a quick safety check.

WHAT DOES MEALS ON WHEELS DO?

Meals on Wheels primarily provides nutritious meals, a quick safety check and much-needed human connection to homebound seniors. In some communities, additional services that keep seniors healthy and safe are also offered, like pet food delivery, senior center meal programs, and more. Each local program works with its own community’s needs and resources to provide a community-specific solution.

DONATE NOW

You can help the homebound seniors living in your community. Your donation, no matter how large or small, will support our cause and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

ABOUT VOLUNTEERING

WHAT WILL I BE DOING WHEN I VOLUNTEER?

The most common volunteer job is delivering meals and friendly greetings to homebound seniors. Most typically, this involves picking up meals at a central location and delivering them along a pre-determined route directly to the homes of several seniors in your area. Once you’re done, you return the delivery packaging items and get back on your way.

HOW OFTEN WILL I BE EXPECTED TO VOLUNTEER?

We can set up a volunteer schedule that works with yours. Whether that be once a week, once a month or as needed, just mention your preferences when you connect with your local program.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO VOLUNTEER?

Local programs typically aim to provide volunteer opportunities that fit within a lunch break of up to an hour and a half.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Fill out the signup form and we’ll share your interest with the local Meals on Wheels program in your area. They’ll follow up with you shortly, or you can contact them directly. Their contact information will be provided on the signup confirmation screen and email.

CAN I VOLUNTEER WITH A GROUP?

Groups are very welcome. Please mention your interest in volunteering as a group when speaking to your local program.

CAN MY COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION SET UP VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN MULTIPLE CITIES?

Yes! Companies or organizations interested in creating group volunteer opportunities can complete an easy online volunteer form at Meals on Wheels group volunteer

DO I NEED A CAR?

In most locations volunteers who deliver meals will drive their own cars. However, in some urban settings, delivery routes can be covered on foot or by using mass transit. Please ask your local Meals on Wheels program about transportation when you are setting up your volunteer assignments.

WILL I ALWAYS VOLUNTEER WITH THE SAME CLIENTS?

Typically, recurring volunteers can sign up for a set schedule and delivery route, therefore allowing you to visit the same seniors on a regular basis. However, on rare occasions there could be a need to fill in open volunteer slots or to volunteer on different schedules which could result in serving different clients on different days.

HOW MANY CLIENTS WILL I MEET WHEN I “DO LUNCH?”

That largely depends on the distance between deliveries. Volunteers in more rural settings typically see fewer clients in a single volunteer shift, while those in urban areas can visit quickly with multiple clients living in close proximity to each other.

CAN I RESCHEDULE WHEN SOMETHING COMES UP?

Schedules are typically flexible with appropriate notice. Once you’re connected with your local Meals on Wheels program, you’ll be able to work directly with them to manage your volunteer schedule.