As Horizon Home Care & Hospice, Inc. celebrates their Meals on Wheels (MOW) program through the ‘A Meal and a Moment’ social media campaign, it is important to closely examine the non-meal aspect of our program. Specifically, let’s takes a closer look at what we mean by the ‘Moment.’

Volunteers are the heart of our Horizon MOW program, which is nothing new. I want to focus on the moments our MOW volunteers create with every meal delivered. Each meal delivered is an intentional act of caring. It begins with the volunteer arriving at our corporate office where the meals are waiting to be sorted by route, then by client. The volunteers work together to ensure the correct meals are put on the right route, for the right recipient. Next they load the meals into their personal vehicles and set off to complete delivery. Every meal delivery starts with a knock on the door.

The knock on the door is the much anticipated indicator to our Horizon MOW clients that our volunteer has arrived, and with their arrival they each bring a sense of caring and a friendly smile. We have all read about concerns with isolation within our communities, and Horizon's MOW program is combating loneliness and isolation with each meal delivered. There is no way to put a price on the importance of human connection.

The benefits of having a meal delivered by another human are so important and unique to the Horizon MOW program, it must be highlighted further. The individuals who are volunteering their time have a strong sense of community with a drive to have a positive impact. Because of their commitment to the community, our Horizon volunteers create the moment, the connection, which impacts the following:

• Improved mental health / reduced anxiety and depression

• Increased happiness

• Stronger self-esteem / feelings of being accepted

• Positive impact on the immune system

“I enjoy that I do not have to cook three meals a day. It saves me a lot of time and energy. I like getting to know the volunteers who come to deliver my meals.” – Kathleen, Meals on Wheels Client

Each moment our Horizon MOW volunteer connects with another client, is another moment we can verify the client is safe. Safety is another element of our MOW program that goes beyond the ‘check in’ at the door. The connection between volunteer and client provides peace of mind to families and friends that their loved one is receiving a meal and moment each weekday.

The Horizon MOW program promotes independence, well-being, safety, and the important element of connection with others.

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.