St. Paul Meals on Wheels needs more dedicated volunteers from the community to personally deliver meals during the lunch hour to those enrolled in the program, many of whom are seniors.
Many of the town’s elderly and adults with disabilities are fragile and vulnerable, and most struggle to prepare a nutritious meal on their own – which is where Meals on Wheels steps in. The program delivers daily hot meals – prepared at Sunnyside Manor – directly to the doorsteps of many seniors in town.
Though the program has 12 volunteers, their availability is not a guarantee.
“Meals are mainly geared towards seniors and those who may have challenges getting out and getting those meals,” says Town of St. Paul FCSS Director Lynn Smid. “So, we have volunteer drivers who go and collect these meals at Sunnyside Manor at the lunch hour to deliver to those in need.”
Those interested in volunteering their time are being asked to contact the Town FCSS at 780-645-5311 for more information.
Meals are delivered during the lunch hour Monday to Friday. Volunteers must pick up the food for delivery.
According to Smid, delivering meals to senior residents is also an important safety check for some. Volunteers may choose to stay for a chat, which could help reduce isolation.
“(The program) was created in response to a need,” Smid said. “Anytime there is a need in our community that falls within awareness and prevention that’s when FCSS steps in… and so it was seen that seniors are isolated.”
The service can be accessed by phone or walk-in at the Town FCSS office, or by calling the office. The cost for each meal is $5.
While meals are only delivered once a day, participants may request for more than one meal to be delivered at a time, said Smid.
The program currently serves 18 residents, according to Smid. Adding, the number peaks during the winter season because it is more difficult for those in need to get around.
