Take Action: Volunteer
How can you help Meals On Wheels programs provide the next meal “so no senior goes hungry”®?
Take the Pledge to End Senior Hunger by 2020
A groundbreaking research study found that as of 2007, there were nearly 6 million seniors facing the threat of hunger. Our goal is to match that number – with 6 million people who are willing to stand up and pledge to do what it takes to end senior hunger. Will you take the Pledge?
Contact Your Local Program to Deliver or Prepare a Meal
Click here to use our Meals On Wheels program locator.
Volunteers are the backbone of Meals On Wheels programs across the country. Not only do they prepare and deliver meals to homebound seniors in their local communities, but Meals On Wheels volunteers also provide the seniors they serve with companionship and a warm, friendly smile when they arrive at the door.
There are numerous volunteer opportunities at a Meals On Wheels program near you, though specific openings will vary from one location to another. People of varied interests and abilities can help at a local Meals On Wheels program – whether they want to be hands-on or behind the scenes, and whether they can volunteer during weekdays or only on evenings and weekends. Call your local organization to find out how you can help.
How Can YOU Help?
MOWAA Members across the country identified these common volunteer positions. Not all opportunities are not available at every organization – and many local programs have additional, unique volunteer needs.
Drivers and Runners
Drivers pick up meals at a central location then follow a specific route, making several stops along the way to deliver to Meals On Wheels recipients. Sometimes a driver works with a volunteer “runner” who takes the meal from the car to the door of the seniors’ homes.
Special Events
All Meals On Wheels programs have events and fundraisers that require extra help – including planning and organizing, publicity, onsite setup and staffing and much more. Ask your local program if there are upcoming events that you can help with.
Office Help
Most people don't realize that all Meals On Wheels programs have an administrative side – an office that organizes meal preparation and delivery and communicates with clients. Many programs use volunteers to provide administrative and clerical support to keep the office running smoothly.
Meal Preparation and Packaging
At many programs, volunteers assist in the kitchen, preparing meals or packing them for delivery.
Telephone Calls
Many programs have volunteers who make regular phone calls to the seniors to check up on them. This is often a great opportunity for volunteers looking to participate from their own homes on a flexible schedule.
Senior Center Aides
Some Meals On Wheels programs provide congregate meals in addition to home delivered meals – serving meals at a central location, where seniors can come to eat together. For programs that include a senior center, there are many opportunities available for those interested in helping with activities, meal service and other tasks.
Find a volunteer opportunity with Meals On Wheels in your area:
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