Meals on Wheels supports seniors for Christmas amid pandemic

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Caledon Meals on Wheels (CMOW) is working to support Caledon seniors this upcoming holiday season through a variety of initiatives. 

Senior residents have been coping this year by relying on relatives, neighbours and community organizations such as CMOW amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to being a part of the vulnerable age group, seniors are in constant isolation to protect them from the virus. 

In order to keep seniors stocked with necessities, CMOW has been supplying meals through their Hot and Frozen Meals program, as well as grocery programs and phone and in-person wellness checks.

“We know that this can be a lonely time for many, but the additional restrictions have been particularly hard on people this year who normally would have enjoyed holiday parties and visits with neighbours, friends and families,” said Executive Director Christine Sevigny. “We have tried to make our doorway wellness visits a bit more festive.” 

Staff members at CMOW, though masked, have been wearing festive hats while delivering gifts, cards, as well as important information and resources. 

“We have sent out special letters and gifts to our meals clients as well in an effort to brighten their day,” Sevigny. 

As part of the holiday festivities, seniors receive free turkey dinners as a part of Caledon Meals on Wheels' annual tradition.

The community has joined together to help CMOW support Caledon seniors in the area through donations of different gifts, whether it be food, gift cards or other gifts of kindness. 

“It warms my heart to hear of all of the stories of neighbours helping neighbours [and] local businesses despite these tough times, offering food, meals and gifts, and faith communities putting together baskets [for] those in need,” said Sevigny. “It is truly wonderful to have the support of individuals, service clubs and businesses who donate not only to Caledon Meals on Wheels but to all the great organizations in Caledon who are working so hard to support the community.”

CMOW communicates daily with the community through social media with the different available programs and ways they can help. 

For the upcoming season, staff at CMOW have encouraged residents to “gift the perfect gift to a senior in your life” through Caledon Meals on Wheels gift certificates that can be used for hot or frozen meals as well as grocery delivery. 

President of Bolton Kin John Stegeman have sponsored a Christmas Turkey Dinner initiative for local seniors to enjoy their holidays.

Additionally, residents were sent a resource card this past fall to have the information and contacts easily available for when they are need in food, information, and even companionship.

“We continue to do what we can despite the less-than-ideal circumstances out there,” said Sevigny. “We are hopeful that 2021 will start to get us all back to the life and activities that we enjoyed so much.”

For more information or to learn how you can help, please visit cmow.org.