By Brittany Kintigh, The Mountain Times
On a cloudy fall day, with the sun peeking through, I had the joy of riding along with volunteer Bob Boertien on his Meals on Wheels delivery route from the Hoodland Senior Center (HSC). For 21 years, Bob has dedicated his Mondays to delivering meals to seniors, and his passion shines through in every interaction. For Meals on Wheels to run smoothly, Monday through Thursday two volunteers split a preplanned route, visiting approximately 20 homes each over the course of two hours to deliver food.
Our day began at 10:45 AM, where we picked up coolers at HSC before heading to Alpine Events Center to collect freshly prepared lunches. Each week, local gem Busy Bee Catering creates delightful meals. Today’s spread included mouthwatering Reuben sandwiches, homemade slaw, and watermelon slices—definitely a treat for the seniors!
As we set off, it was clear that this route was second nature to Bob. From 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, we visited about 20 homes from Rhody to Tim Rim. Bob never needed a GPS; he knew not only the addresses but also the stories behind each door. He eagerly inquired about health updates, family, and even pets, showcasing the genuine connections he has built over the years.
I was curious about his approach when someone didn’t come to the door. Bob explained that some recipients prefer to use a cooler outside their home for convenience. However, if a regular participant is unexpectedly absent, he always informs HSC staff, ensuring a follow-up call later in the week.
When I asked Bob what he loves most about volunteering, he said, “It’s all about helping seniors stay in their homes and live independently.” In our rural community, where transportation can be a challenge, Meals on Wheels guarantees five meals a week for those who need it most. Bob noted, “Recipients are very resilient and doing pretty well, all things considered.”
As we chatted with each person along the route, I noticed a lovely theme: many had neighbors checking in on them, offering groceries or rides. It was heartwarming to see how our community supports one another.
Meals on Wheels provides more than just food; it’s a vital lifeline of care, connection, and companionship. With the holiday season approaching, consider sharing your time as a volunteer driver. Even just a few hours a month can make a world of difference in someone’s life!