To the Editor:
I have been a Meals on Wheels delivery driver for nearly six years. Over that time, I have seen the difference the program makes by providing meals at no cost to recipients. I have become friends with many of the people on my route, and I have learned from them how important it is that they have someone come to their house to check in on them, and perhaps have a conversation.
Like many social services agencies, Meals on Wheels funding is under threat. In May, Barnstable had to eliminate Meals on Wheels deliveries on Tuesdays. As of today, the Vineyard has been able to avoid service cuts, but the threat looms.
Meals on Wheels provides food and companionship to nearly 300 Island seniors who find it difficult or impossible to take advantage of other food equity programs. According to a survey conducted by Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands (ESCCI), which runs Meals on Wheels, 18 percent of meal recipients report that the Meals on Wheels volunteer driver is the only person they see most days –– and more than 80 percent report that their home-delivered meal is their main meal of the day, comprising roughly half their daily caloric intake.
Meals on Wheels is only one strand in the precious web of services that support our community, but it is critical to those who rely on it for daily food and companionship. Please consider supporting Meals on Wheels through a donation to ESCCI –– any amount will make a difference. If you have time to spare, they are always looking for drivers. You can choose how often you volunteer; even once a month will help make our seniors’ lives less difficult and less lonely. If you would benefit from Meals on Wheels services, call the ESCCI Vineyard office at 508-693-4393.
Marta Van Ranst
Oak Bluffs