Why Did You Start Delivering Meals on Wheels?
I was supposed to go on a teen tour this summer, but it was canceled due to COVID-19. My mom didn't want me to sit around all summer and play video games. She asked me to do some community service and suggested I volunteer at SAGE delivering Meals on Wheels (along with her since I didn't have my driver's license yet.)
What Surprised You About Delivering Meals?
I wasn't excited when my Mom first told me I was doing this, especially because I was used to sleeping late in the summer. I had to get up early on delivery days. But after I did it a few times, I started to like it. The people on our route were really nice. They were happy to see me when I brought the meals to their door. One woman always mentioned how hungry she was when I arrived. I felt good knowing I was helping her and others in my community.
What Was Your Most Memorable Delivery?
One of my favorite clients is a sweet couple on our route. The man once offered me a five dollar tip and said I was doing such a good job! I declined, but it was nice to know that he really appreciated the work I was doing.
Another scarier delivery was one when we drove up to a client's house and there was an ambulance and police at the door. The policeman didn't have any information on the woman, but my Mom gave him her name and contact information. We also left the meal with the police officer who put it in the house so she would have something to eat when she got home. All-day, I was thinking about her, hoping she was okay and luckily she was.
One Thing I Want People to Know about Meals on Wheels...
I was surprised by how many people in our neighborhood have meals delivered. I didn't realize how many people rely on Meals on Wheels: couples, people who live alone, younger people with health issues, etc. I hope people know it is available if they need it.