For several weeks you have been engaged with Horizon’s Meals on Wheels (MOW) social media campaign. I’m here to share the inside story about the ‘heart’ of the MOW operations.

You’ve heard about our partners in the kitchen, our friends at Davians Catering. Behind the scenes, kitchen staff and chefs work tirelessly to prepare nutritious meals tailored to seniors’ dietary needs. Whether it’s a warm bowl of soup on a winter day or a fresh salad in the summer, their efforts ensure that every recipient gets a healthy and satisfying meal.

You have heard it before, but it is true “…it starts with leadership.” Our Manager of Volunteer Services is Kim. Kim oversees the day to day operations of our MOW program, often stepping in to deliver meals herself in support of the volunteers, who deserve a day off. Team work is truly the success of the Horizon MOW program.

A leader by themselves is not a team, so let us continue this tribute to MOW by acknowledging Rosie, our MOW Coordinator. When you are working with volunteers, who graciously donate their time, it is vital to have an individual with strong communication skills. Rosie stays connected with our volunteers and the MOW clients to ensure each day, every route is executed without a hitch.

Finally, it is our wonderful volunteers who bring home the meal. Without them, our MOW program, which serves over 100 clients would not be possible. Volunteers are the lifeblood and heart of Meals on Wheels. They not only deliver food, but also provide much-needed human connection. Many seniors live alone, and for some, a visit from a Meals on Wheels volunteer is the only social interaction they have that day.

Tom, a longtime volunteer, shares,

“I started delivering meals after I retired, and I can’t imagine my life without it now. The relationships I’ve built with the seniors on my route are incredibly rewarding.”

I think MOW client Miriam says it best…

“The Meals on Wheels volunteers go out of their way to help clients. They really go above and beyond what their job requires. A volunteer called my son to tell him that my heat was not working.” – Miriam, Meals on Wheels Client

Finally, the last insider tidbit… Yes, it is true, I know you are wondering…. Sometimes we do eat a leftover MOW meal :)

Meals on Wheels serves as a beacon of hope, and ensures no one in our community goes hungry or forgotten. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply sharing its message, each of us can play a part in this life-changing mission. Together, we can bring comfort to the table for those who need it most.

To order meals and a moment for someone dear to you, contact Horizon at 414-365-8300 and ask for our Meals on Wheels Coordinator.