‘What we do is so important’: Meals on Wheels looking for volunteers this March

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — One fresh meal can go a long way for someone in need.

That’s something Meals on Wheels knows all too well.

“What we do is so important, and I saw that from the very first day,” said executive director Mason Kaufman. “We feed homebound individuals, older adults, and we see the impact it makes.”

Last year, the organization provided 231,000 meals to the community. They expect to hit 292,000 this year.

Thomas Nami, a kitchen volunteer, makes 400 a day.

“The first meals we work on in the morning are the cold meals. Sandwiches, salads with side dishes,” he said. “Later on in the morning, we work on the hot meals. We have turkey, different pastas.”

Nami says to keep up, the kitchen could use a few more hands.

“They have a core staff, and I don’t know how they’d be able to do it all by themselves if they didn’t have people volunteering,” he said. “It actually helps them out and you get to meet people from all different walks of life which is neat while you’re working here.”

Meals on Wheels is also looking for 25 volunteer drivers.

“It’s real easy to volunteer. You can pick the schedule that works with you. It doesn’t take a lot of time, it’s not a lot of miles,” said Josh Nelson, a volunteer driver. “The routes are efficient and I’m glad I’m doing it.”

Drivers drop off the meals, delivering more than just food to its destination.

“When you meet these people and you might be the only person they see all day, they’re always friendly, appreciative, and sometimes want to have a brief conversation,” Nelson said.

Feeding those less fortunate with more than just nutrients.

To sign up to be a volunteer, click here or call 215-478-5948, ext. 213.