Thursday is Meals on Wheels delivery day for many seniors in the Bothell, Kenmore, and Woodinville communities. Without these meals a lot of them would be not have enough food for the week. Because they can no longer go grocery shopping or stand to prepare their meals, this service is essential to their well being. A suggested donation of $5 is accepted but not mandatory.

Handling the weekly orders, making the deliveries, and checking on the recipients is done by volunteers from the Northshore Senior Center in Bothell. Sound Generations, formerly Senior Services of Seattle, administers the local program. The volunteer drivers not only deliver the meals but act as eyes and ears for social services if they spot a need.

Menu choices include breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, and favorite items are meatloaf, spaghetti, cheesy omelette, and pizza. Customer ages range from 55 to 98. Some are wheelchair bound and cannot leave the house. Meals on Wheels enables many seniors to remain living in their homes and provides them with additional support, especially if they have little or no family support. As one recipient said, “I am very grateful for the help you are giving at this time… It would be hard for you to realize what a difference the meals have made in my life.”

Overall, Meal on wheels is a very cost efficient program that benefits not only its customers. It enriches the entire community.

More information on the Bothell area Meal on Wheels program can be obtained by calling Northshore Senior Center at 425-487- 2441. Your request will be processed by the coordinator for Meal on Wheels Program.

Mary Evans is with the Northshore Senior Center.