Program Description:

SPRINT Senior Care’s Meals on Wheels (MOW) program is a volunteer-based service that delivers meals directly to clients’ homes seven days a week, 365 days a year. It is primarily a nutrition program with therapeutic, preventative and social components. The service involves the safe and efficient delivery of hot and frozen meals to persons who are unable to attend to their own nutritional needs. These clients include the elderly, disabled, chronically ill and/or convalescent. We are currently experiencing a volunteer shortage and are urgently seeking volunteers.

Responsibilities:

• Report to the Sunnybrook Hospital Meals on Wheels office by 10:30 a.m. to pick-up meals and gather instructions for delivery of meals to clients on route and noting any special instructions for the day (e.g. no bread).
• Some bending and/or lifting required.
• Chat briefly with clients and monitor clients’ well being.
• Be familiar with emergency procedures.
• Promptly report client absences or if you notice any changes in the clients’ well being to Meals on Wheels Co-ordinator.
• Return the food bins/warmers/coolers back to Sunnybrook after delivery.

Time and Commitment:

• Weekly Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Volunteers should consider a minimum of three months commitment.

Benefits and Challenges:

• Developing new friendships.
• Helping isolated seniors and feeling direct accomplishment of helping your community.
• Risk of seeing people battling illness or depression may be a challenge.
• Also a risk of being first on the scene during an emergency situation.
• Gas reimbursement available.

Qualifications:

• Valid “G” driver’s license with a clean driving record, and appropriate proof of personal insurance is required.
• Must have a personal vehicle to use for deliveries.
• Satisfactory Police Records Check
• Interest in community based social service and/or food services to an older adult population
• Ability to demonstrate good judgement and tact.

By becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer, you'll play a vital role in supporting our community's seniors, ensuring they receive essential meals while fostering social connection and combating isolation!