NORTH SYRACUSE — Each year, Meals on Wheels agencies across the country typically invite “Community Champions” — elected officials and other prominent local figures — to deliver meals as part of the March for Meals campaign. But this year, North Area Meals on Wheels is turning the spotlight onto the real community champions: its volunteers.
“We’re all about our volunteers, and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them,” said Jennifer Covert, NAMOW executive director. “We’re looking to add to our crew, and it’s the best crew you could ever imagine.”
NAMOW is holding a weeklong volunteer drive March 21 through 25. Interested community members are invited to stop by NAMOW’s headquarters to share refreshments, chat with current volunteer coordinators and pick up an application form. Also, there will be a contest to win a gift card.
“Basically, we’re looking for people to increase awareness and support for the increased demand,” Covert said.
The aim of NAMOW’s volunteer drive aligns with the goals of the nationwide March for Meals campaign: raising awareness and funds for local MOW programs. March for Meals celebrates the anniversary of a 1972 amendment to the Older Americans Act of 1965, which established a nutrition program for senior citizens.
Currently, NAMOW has around 300 active volunteers, including cooks, cleaners and delivery drivers. Covert said the organization is in need of cooks and substitute drivers right now, as many of the regular drivers don’t feel comfortable driving in harsh winter weather.
“The majority of them are older. A lot of them are retired,” Covert said.
COVID has been challenging for NAMOW on two fronts. As older volunteers withdrew for a time to minimize their exposure, the client population in need of food ballooned.
“During the biggest part of the pandemic, we were up over 300 clients,” Covert said. “We thought as the pandemic got better, there would be fewer people.”
But demand has remained high. Client numbers are up 2% in the Baldwinsville area, where NAMOW delivers to clients whose meals are paid for by Onondaga County. Baldwinsville Meals on Wheels serves self-pay clients and others who do not qualify for county funding.
“We’re able to help the clients they can’t,” Covert said.
NAMOW’s March for Meals volunteer drive takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 21 through 25. NAMOW is located at 413 Church St. in the village of North Syracuse.
For more information or to donate, visit NAMOW.org.
