With the help of a group of dedicated volunteers and spearheaded by Donna White, Meals on Wheels is vital service that delivers prepared meals and much-needed social interaction to homebound individuals in the Watertown area five days a week come rain, snow and shine. From January 1 to September 30 this year, a whopping 20,669 meals were served by a truly awesome army of Meals on Wheels volunteers!
For several years, beginning soon after retirement, Donna had a very committed couple who delivered meals every Friday, and very often would come as needed when she was in a jam. This couple, Lee and Shirley Clary, were devoted to each other, their family, the community, and to Meals on Wheels, she said. So much so, that Lee was a member of the MOW Board of Directors for many years before it merged with the Watertown Urban Mission. Sadly, Lee Clary passed away recently, a huge loss to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, and his family chose Meals on Wheels as a memorial site following his passing. “Each time we receive a donation in Lee’s memory, I feel his impact and his commitment,” Donna said. “The fact that, even in death, Lee is still supporting a program that was near and dear to his heart, still touching the lives of people he cared so deeply for – still making a difference.”
One such individual whose life has recently been changed by MOW is a young man afflicted with Cerebral Palsy and presently battling cancer. Although his parents would like him to move back home so they could care for him, this young man wants to remain independent for as long as he possibly can. He started receiving MOW in late June, and it has made a huge difference not only for himself, but for his family as well.
The young man is now eating healthier on a more regular schedule and doesn’t have to exert precious energy to prepare a meal, especially when he isn’t having a “good day.” Someone is checking in at a certain time daily and along with the delivery, can assess how he is doing. If there are any concerns, the volunteer delivering will let Donna know and she will contact the young man’s family.
As the holidays approach, it is important to remember that the need for Meals on Wheels is as strong as ever, and that local support is essential to the program’s success. United, we can build stronger, more caring communities that support vulnerable individuals throughout their lives.
To learn more about Meals on Wheels or to become involved with the program, call (315) 782-8440 ext. 231.
The individuals pictured are all past or present Meals on Wheels Volunteers, aside from the gentleman receiving a meal in the last photo. In order of appearance: The Roberts Family, James Youngs from DPAO, and Rick Ingham
