In the center ring of the holiday circus is the dinner table surrounded by family and friends. For some reason food just seems to taste better this time of year, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s Day. Perhaps the addition of camaraderie is the special sauce.
That’s the scenario for the fortunate ones in Dallas County. However, for senior citizens and home-bound folks, this time of year can be challenging due to physical and/or financial limitations.
Luckily, the Visiting Nurse Association of Texas has time and time again stepped forward with its Meals On Wheel program that delivers meals five days a week to those in need. But it’s more than just edibles that are included with the deliveries. It’s the opportunity for a friendly face to see how the recipient is doing and perhaps reduce the loneliness that may be at hand.
Realizing the importance of pets in the clients’ lives, the program has also included supplemental pet food once a month on the weekends.
It’s amazing how the program has expanded from serving 125 meals per day in 1973 to more than 5,650 meals per day today. But the demand is expected to double by 2050, so the need for donations and volunteers is vital.
Since most clients are on very limited budgets, they are not charged the $6.50 per meal — or for the pet food. That’s why the program is dependent upon state funding and private donations.
If you have some time to be a part of the VNA’s success, consider volunteering. Since deliveries are made between 10:30 and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, you could do it on your lunch break. However, if your lunches are already booked for 2026, then consider delivering pet food or help package pet food for delivery on the weekend.