Schools are closed. Churches are empty. Even the public library is closed. But every weekday, Monday through Friday, a cadre of dedicated volunteers come together (socially distanced) to prepare, package and deliver hot meals for 55 members of our community.
Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver a hot meal about noon time and, for some, a sack meal for later.
The meals are prepared at Franciscan Health, under the direction of dietician Carla Strong. Volunteers label and pack the meals. About 11 a.m. drivers, and usually a helper, arrive at the hospital to pick up meals that are delivered on five different routes within the city. Prior to the novel coronavirus outbreak, volunteers made face-to-face contact with each client. Beginning March 16, by order of Dr. Scott Douglas of the Montgomery County Health Department, drivers leave the meals on the doorstep, knock on the door or ring the bell, and walk away avoiding contact with the homebound, thus keeping both drivers and clients safe.
Most clients pay for their own meals: $2.75 for the hot meal and $2.25 for the sack. However some clients, due to excessive medical bills or diminished income need assistance. If you would like to help, contact Pat Stull at 765-364-0291. Some donors contribute a one-time sum while others prefer to sponsor a client over time.
For more information, see http://www.montcares.org/dr-mary-ludwig-free-clinic.html or contact Stull.
