‘March for Meals’ dedicates month to delivering meals for Medicine Hat seniors

“One of the examples is, we had one of the users break her foot,” he said.

“She was mortified that she would not be able to feed herself, because she definitely could barely get around her house, let alone go shopping for groceries or prepare meals,” he added.

“A program like Meals on Wheels essentially allows her to heal while being able to feed herself.”

Larry Mathieson. Bob Schneider/CHAT News

The March for Meals campaign is intended to reduce social isolation, foster a sense of community, and act as a wellness check.

It ensures that vulnerable seniors in Medicine Hat receive the care and attention they deserve.

Mathieson said that the campaign is made fun by having local celebrities participate in delivering meals.

This includes mayor Linnsie Clark, and life coach Trevor Moore, who specializes in habit and confidence development.

From March 17 to 21, Meals on Wheels Champion Week takes place, where volunteers can participate in delivering meals to seniors — whoever they may be.

‘March for Meals Champions’ invited to participate March 17 to 21. Courtesy/Unison at Veiner Centre

Mathieson said that the fundraising campaign allows the Veiner Centre to engage the community in different ways, and isn’t only a program that helps with food security issues.

“There is a lot of research in the States that shows that a program like this actually reduces the number of hospital visits seniors may have,” he said.

“It actually reduces health care costs. And so it’s a program that our seniors and our users love because it helps them address nutritional issues,” he added.

“It’s also a benefit to the health care system, and to the taxpayer as well.”

Mathieson said that, although the March for Meals campaign is carried out throughout the month, donations can be made to the program all throughout the year.

by Jayk Sterkenburg

‘March for Meals’ dedicates month to delivering meals for Medicine Hat seniors

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