September 28, 2010
To all the Wonderful People at Meals on Wheels of Northampton County:
When I told my mother that each day someone would be coming to the house to bring her lunch, she wasn't very happy. She was an independent woman who did everything for herself and her family, and if she didn't do it, I had to. Nevertheless, I had to go to work and she needed lunch and someone to check on her.
At first she just complained about the food; however, as the days, weeks, and years went by, "the meals" (as she called it) became one of the highlights of her day. She would look forward to seeing the men and women who would so caringly deliver her meals. She would look forward to the conversations and the little gifts they gave her on the holidays (she saved every one of those little refrigerator magnets and doorknob hangers).
I would like to thank you and your staff for being a part of my mother's last years and for putting a smile on her face. Enlosed is a small gift to express my appreciation.
Sincerely,
Josephine C.
For older adults like Marie (who is 72 years old), good nutrition means a more healthy and productive life.
“Before I received meals, I had little interest in cooking; I weighed only 117 pounds and felt tired most of the time. I was even hospitalized. Today I feel better and look forward to my meals, as well as the friendly visits of volunteers who truly care. I am so grateful that if I could volunteer for Meals On Wheels, I would.”
Marie takes great pride in her apartment where she has enjoyed living for eighteen years. An avid reader, Marie says, “When my children were small, I couldn’t afford to buy books so I went to the local library. I didn’t graduate from high school, but I love to learn.” Marie’s other favorite pastime is doing puzzles, particularly those that depict animals and flowers.
Marie must try to make ends meet living on Social Security. “The cost of utilities, rent and medications consume most of my income.” She quickly adds, “I know how to budget my money. I had to all of my life.”
Marie is one of 750 older adults whom we have the privilege to serve each day. However, 95% of our clients, like Marie, simply cannot afford the partial or total cost of meal assistance. Good nutrition is not a privilege but a right of every older adult. For this reason, despite their financial hardship, we continue to help them. |
