PORTLAND, Ore. — It’s the season of giving, and there are so many ways to give back while fostering healthier communities at the same time.
Meals on Wheels People is a great example of that, but feeding the community is just one part of the organization's mission.
“We’re providing nutritious meals to our seniors, but we’re also making sure during this holiday season that they’re not forgotten,” said Chief Development Office Shelah Hanson.
On top of delivering meals to homebound seniors around Portland, Meals on Wheels People is a socialization service in many ways, connecting those seniors to volunteers.
“It’s just that piece of reaching out. I think we all have had a grandparent or neighbor, or someone important to us who doesn’t have those connections,” Hanson said. “The holidays can be super hard and so, just knowing there are people watching those loved ones for all of us, that’s really special to me.”
Kristen Erbes connected to Meals on Wheels People through her job as a Compliance Officer at Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oregon. Now, she’s a board member for the nonprofit.
“I was passionate about the organization and its mission. They not only provide meals to seniors but also provide services such as friendly chats and wellness checks, which address social isolation and loneliness,” Erbes said.
Social isolation is associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia and other serious medical conditions, according to the CDC. A phone call from Meals on Wheels People volunteers through their friendly chat program a couple of times a week can help change that.
“The conversation is always great. It’s just a reminder that people feel connected,” Hanson said.
With Giving Tuesday just around the corner, it’s a great opportunity to make a difference in the health of our community and perhaps, even your own. According to the Mayo Clinic, research has shown that volunteering offers significant health benefits, including improving physical and mental health.
For more on Giving Tuesday and to find more places to donate your time or money visit givingtuesday.org.