Meals on Wheel of Trenton-Ewing
Volunteer Appreciation from Son of Irene D.

For over a decade Meals on Wheels of Trenton was an invaluable resource for my mother, Irene D. After she would return home from nursing home rehabilitation, my goal was to keep her independent and in her own home; the home in which I grew up. Nutritionally, Meals on Wheels allowed her to stay in familiar surroundings, something that became increasingly important as dementia crept into her life. But as important as a good diet can be, the human interaction with the volunteers was even more important. She loved these generous and caring people. And as her mental status declined, the volunteers would assist her even more so by keeping her company for a bit while laying out her food.

Additionally, the staff consistently offered their assistance to me, Irene’s son, in ways that were invaluable. If the volunteer thought she looked in need of help, I would get a call. If they knocked on her door and there was not a quick answer, I would get a call. If I had a concern, having unsuccessfully telephoned my mom, then I would give Meals on Wheels a call. Countless times, the staff and director would be my eyes when I could not be at my mom’s side.

Over the course of being my mom’s caregiver, no other organization truly cared for the well being of my mom, in a fashion that was giving and unselfish, expecting little more than a smile in return. And after my mom’s passing, staff members continued to show me their support by attending her funeral services and allowing me to meet them face to face. Today, such wonderful people are rare; I will always be thankful for their bighearted compassion.

With warmest regards,
John D.