One of the most important services the Lenawee Department on Aging provides is Home Delivered Meals. Each weekday, hot meals go to adults 60 and older who are homebound, unable to prepare food, and have no one who can assist them. This requires 38 delivery routes across the county, leaving from senior centers in Addison, Blissfield, Hudson, Morenci, Onsted, Tecumseh, and from the central kitchen in Adrian.

These deliveries are only possible because of dedicated volunteers. Some deliver every day, others once a week, or even just a couple of days a month. “It does not matter how often they deliver; it makes a difference,” says nutrition director Connie Fenby-Beevers. Long-time volunteer and former department director Tom MacNaughton shared, “Delivering meals is one of the most tangible ways to give meaning to life.”

Volunteers come from many places and backgrounds. Some deliver because it gives purpose to their day. Others serve as part of a community service requirement. Many employers allow staff to take a longer lunch hour to help. College athletic teams, the Goodwill LINK program, and the HOPE Center have also made commitments to deliver meals. The Department on Aging is grateful for each one.

During the winter months, volunteer drivers are especially needed. Routes are ready between 10:30 and 11 a.m., and most take about an hour. One volunteer, Diane Bach, noted, “It only takes an hour to make sure older adults talk with someone and have a nutritious meal.”

Volunteers can receive mileage reimbursement at the federal rate and are invited to enjoy a meal when they return. But as volunteer driver Margaret O’Malley reminds us, “We deliver food and receive blessings in return.”

Deputy director Dillon Donaghy adds, “Delivering meals with a friend or co-worker is a win-win. You get to spend time with someone while making a huge impact.” 

Volunteer coordinators at each site are happy to pair new drivers with someone experienced so they can try a delivery before making a commitment.

Volunteer drivers are needed now across the county, especially through the winter months. If you,  your staff or organization, can spare an hour, consider joining this amazing group. Call the Lenawee Department on Aging at 264-5280 to sign up or learn more.

Cari Rebottaro is director of the Lenawee County Department on Aging.