Members of the Erie County Legislature’s Majority Caucus kicked off National Volunteer Month by joining dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteers on their routes to deliver to those in need. The home meal delivery program wouldn’t be possible without its hundreds of volunteers.
Chairman John Mills, Majority Leader Joseph Lorigo, Legislator Lynne Dixon, Legislator Ted Morton and Legislator Edward Rath partnered with Meals on Wheels distribution sites located in their districts and teamed up with volunteers to complete the delivery routes on April 1, the first day of National Volunteer Month.
“Meals on Wheels is a critical part of our community, and the most critical part of the organization is the volunteers. Without them we wouldn’t have Meals on Wheels. The members of the Majority Caucus are pleased to join these dedicated volunteers and thank them for setting an example for our community,” said Chairman Mills, who met with volunteers at the North Collins Senior Center. “It seems only fitting that we kickoff National Volunteer Month with Meals on Wheels volunteers, showing how important volunteerism is.”
Legislator Dixon, who serves on the board of directors for Meals on Wheels and also participated in the annual Champions for Meals event in South Buffalo last month, met with staff and volunteers on April 1 at the Lackawanna Senior Center to deliver to the city’s clients.
“It takes a lot of manpower to get thousands of meals to residents in need in a short period of time every day of the week. Watching the volunteers complete their routes as efficiently as they do is incredible, and they do it despite the weather or how busy their own schedule might be because they truly care about helping others,” said Legislator Dixon.
Legislator Lorigo joined volunteers at Absolut Care of Aurora Park to assist in meal delivery for the greater East Aurora community.
“In the district I represent there are many rural towns and the volunteers for Meals on Wheels, along with numerous other outreach programs, allow for groups to carry out their mission and accomplish tasks they might not otherwise be able to. There is always a need for volunteers so during National Volunteer Month please consider donating your time to one of the many outstanding philanthropic organizations located in Erie County,” said Legislator Lorigo.
Meals on Wheels serves residents throughout Erie County, from the most southern tip to the northern sections of the county. Legislator Rath joined Meals on Wheels volunteers in Clarence, one of the county’s most northern town to deliver meals.
“I have had the opportunity to join Meals on Wheels volunteers on various routes throughout the years and I always ask them how they got involved and the answer is always similar: ‘because there was a need.’ Thank you to all the volunteers in our community who answer the call for help and give of their time so generously,” said Legislator Rath.
Legislator Morton, who met with volunteers at the Lancaster Senior Center, noted that when visiting the volunteers it is important to stay out of their way because they have a system and it works incredibly well.
“If you want to see the power of volunteerism, look no further than Meals on Wheels. The volunteers are ready to work and ensure that the clients’ needs are met. I want to thank the Lancaster Meals on Wheels volunteers for welcoming me today and allowing me the chance to truly thank them for their hard work,” said Legislator Morton.”
Legislator Kevin Hardwick recently participated in Ken-Ton Meals on Wheels’ Community Champions Week and also acknowledged National Volunteer Month and the county’s volunteers.
“The Meals on Wheels program plays a critical role in our community and without it many residents would be struggling to eat a full meal every day. Thanks to the numerous volunteers who keep Ken-Ton Meals on Wheels operating, along with a dedicated staff, the clients’ dietary needs are met and receive more than just a meal at their doorstep,” Legislator Hardwick said.