I often hear from readers about how important the Meals on Wheels program is to their families. These daily, home-delivered meals make a real difference for loved ones living on fixed incomes. They give caregivers a break from having to cook. Visits from our volunteer drivers are a check-in that gives adult children who live far away peace of mind.

We’re always looking for volunteer drivers to keep this program rolling, and right now the need for volunteers is especially great in two communities: Lawrence and Lowell. In Lawrence, nearly 650 older adults receive Meals on Wheels. In Lowell, that number is more than 1,000.

Meals on Wheels routes are a great volunteer opportunity for individuals who want to make a difference. Over the years we’ve also had corporate teams, religious organizations, student groups, and nonprofits adopt routes. The position offers compensation, flexibility, and something that’s hard to measure – the knowledge that you are helping your neighbors stay in their homes and in our community.

As part of National Nutrition Month, we’re also inviting civic leaders, local businesses, and others to help deliver meals throughout the month of March as Community Champions, so they can see firsthand how Meals on Wheels fights food insecurity and loneliness.

There are a few ways you can help. You can spread the word about our nutrition services or make a referral. You can donate to this vital program by visiting https://agespan.org/donate/.

Or you can become a volunteer driver. If you would like to adopt a route, please contact our Volunteer and Intern Program Coordinator, Emily Dionne at edionne@agespan.org or (978) 946-1235. Your support will help an older adult in our community stay healthy and safe at home.

Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org. 

Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.