The Macomb County Office of Senior Services is in urgent need of volunteers to support its Meals on Wheels program. Currently, the program serves 1,700 seniors and includes 84 routes throughout the county, each of which need to be covered by a volunteer who drives the routes and delivers meals.
“The volunteers who deliver these vital meals make a world of difference to the seniors who rely on that daily visit for both nourishment and human connection,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. “A hot meal and a friendly face can truly change someone’s day for the better. If you have a little extra time, I encourage you to consider volunteering with the Meals on Wheels program, it’s one of the most meaningful ways to make a real impact in our community.”
“Right now, we have approximately 700 volunteers who support the program, and we’re looking to add another 66 drivers as quickly as possible,” said Sheila Cote, Director of the Macomb County Office of Senior Services. “The citizens of Macomb County have always stepped-up and embraced opportunities to volunteer and support their fellow citizens in ways that really make a difference in people’s lives and we’re hoping this is no different.”
Why volunteer?
- Information from Western Connecticut State University indicates volunteering is good for your mind and body.
- Volunteering increases self-confidence. The better you feel about yourself the more likely you are to have a positive view of your life and future goals.
- Volunteering helps you stay physically healthy, too. Studies show that those who volunteer live longer and has even shown to lesson symptoms of chronic pain and heart disease.
- A recent study by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults engaged in volunteering were 43% less likely to suffer from depression.
“Having an active, engaged group of volunteers support the Meals on Wheels program is essential, and helps make it the success that it is,” said Andrew Cox, Director/Health Officer of the Macomb County Department of Health and Community Services. “It is my hope that anyone who has considered being a volunteer, to get involved with this highly rewarding opportunity.”
Learn more about being a Meals on Wheels volunteer here. You can also send an email to volunteer@macombgov.org.
