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Columbia! Let’s Do Lunch

Blog

July 12, 2016

More than 10 million seniors in the United States (that’s 1 in 6) currently face the threat of hunger and 15 million seniors are living alone in isolation. And, each and every day, Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver one million meals to those who need them the most.
In Richland County, more than 18,000 seniors face hunger, and more than 27,000 are isolated and live alone. Senior Resources helps these seniors remain independent by providing Meals on Wheels. We are partnering with Meals on Wheels America to recruit more volunteers through the “America, Let’s Do Lunch” campaign.
Many people know Meals on Wheels as a food delivery service for the homebound. However, what they don’t know is how impactful the moments of contact between the volunteer and the recipient can be. For many seniors, the volunteer who drops off their meal is the only person they will see that day. The delivery isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about a valuable moment of human connection. And in turn, it’s those moments of human connection that make volunteering so rewarding.
We know firsthand that Meals on Wheels clients are some of the country’s most inspirational and interesting people, full of wisdom and stories. Our volunteers have noted time and again that these experiences are what keeps them coming back to Meals on Wheels, and deepens their connection beyond food delivery.
With the senior population projected to double by 2050, Meals on Wheels needs to recruit a whole new wave of volunteers to serve the growing need. Meals on Wheels, which consists of more than 5,000 local programs in virtually every community in America, relies on an army of two million volunteers who deliver meals to seniors in need every day between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. These volunteers are crucial to the well-being of seniors across the country. With the majority of the current volunteer base over the age of 55, there is a real need to encourage and recruit people of all ages to get involved, donate their lunch break and volunteer.
What can you do? You can experience these special moments of human connection right here in the Midlands by volunteering with Senior Resources.  If you can’t stray too far from the office, donate your lunch break and participate in meal delivery close to your work. We have opportunities for volunteers to help by packing meals or by delivering meals.
Sign up to volunteer with Senior Resources and start making a difference right here in our local community today.  Call us at (803) 252-7734, or email us at volunteer@seniorresourcesinc.org.