FORT WORTH (1080 KRLD) - The need for the Meals on Wheels food delivery program is growing by the day in Tarrant County, but less volunteers are stepping up to help.
The organization relies heavily on volunteers to deliver food to people unable to leave their homes. Many Meals on Wheels clients are disabled or elderly, and for some, the only social interaction they get is when their Meals on Wheels delivery drivers swing by.
"We serve over 4,000 individuals across Tarrant County, and almost a million meals a year," said Jordan Lyle, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist with Meals on Wheels. "It's a lot of man power, so on average every year we have about 5,200 volunteers. Right now, we're at a shortage of about 70 or so volunteers ... that makes us short for about 44 routes."
Lyle says many of the program's long term volunteers-- some who have been delivering Meals on Wheels for over 45 years-- are retiring.
For years, Baby Boomers have made up most of the program's volunteer force. Now that they're getting older, Lyle says they're stepping back to look after their own elderly parents. She says it's time for someone new to take up the mantle.
"We're really just trying to get that next generation to move in and say 'This is something I want to do,'" Lyle said.
Another reason for the volunteer shortage? Meals on Wheels is delivering more meals than ever before. The program is even planning to add six more meal routes to its delivery service.
Lyle says working as a volunteer with the program is a special thing.
"It's the highlight of your week," she said. "If you've ever had an elderly or disabled loved one in your life, and they've impacted you ... just keep that in mind when you consider volunteering with us. These are people who really just savor every moment they get with their volunteers, and you become the people closest to them."
People interested in volunteering can find out more info here.