In a home in South Dallas, Meals on Wheels client, Vera, and Meals on Wheels volunteer, Alysse, met with VNA to share their special story.

Born and raised in Waco, Texas in 1943, Vera decided to relocate to Dallas to become a nurse as she enjoyed helping others and giving back to the community. An avid traveler, Vera always found time to volunteer beginning with feeding the homeless at her church. As time went on, she began losing her sight and it was then she knew she needed Meals on Wheels. Vera is now fully blind and says, “I could prepare a meal in the microwave, but now that isn’t even safe anymore.”

Alysse first became a Meals on Wheels volunteer six years ago. “I got involved with VNA because I wanted to volunteer with an organization where you can actually see the impact you’re making.” It was soon after she began delivering that Vera began receiving meals. “Vera opened her home to me. She was so friendly and wanted me to come and sit with her to talk. She doesn’t have children of her own, and I feel now as if I am her child.” Ms. Jones smiled, and added, “I look forward to all my Meals on Wheels deliveries, but Alysse is special. She helps me feel not so lonely. She’s like my daughter.”

The love and companionship shared between the two is indescribable—from once a stranger to now considering one another family. The servant heart embodied by these incredible women is a warm reminder of the joy of volunteering. And VNA Meals on Wheels brought them together.

You too can give back to VNA this holiday season, through delivering Meals, or making a gift to our homebound seniors.