Meals on Wheels of Norman invites volunteers as it nears 53 years of service

Meals on Wheels of Norman has been delivering nutritious meals to elderly and disabled residents for nearly 53 years, providing around 300 meals daily. With summer approaching, the organization needs volunteers, as regular helpers take time off.

Execute Director of Meals on Wheels of Norman Summer McGuire joined News 9 Saturday morning to discuss the program, and how to public can help the organization.

Q: What is Meals on Wheels?

A: So Meals on Wheels of Norman and we deliver nutritious noontime meals to the ill, disabled, and elderly of Norman. Our clients are going to be over 62 years of age or have a disability. A lot of times it's the only nutritious meal that they get each day and it just means so much to them to be able to stay in their home for as long as possible. You never realize that these seniors need help. You never realize knocking on their door that that's their one meal sometimes.

Q: Why are you guys in need of volunteers?

A: Summer months we have regular volunteers that drive the same route every week. They get to know their driver and their volunteers. A lot of times the volunteers are the only outside contact that the clients get each day. So, I mean, it's so much more than just a meal. But during the summer months, you know, people going on vacation. We have a lot of college students that'll deliver. They're going home for the summer. That's our biggest need right now is volunteers. So we welcome everybody to come and just give it a try. The impact and the reward that you see when you deliver that meal and that friendly face and knowing that you're truly making an impact on somebody's life, it's just such an amazing feeling. And it's nothing like having a new best friend. You can always meet someone.

Those interested in volunteering with Meals on Wheels of Norman can sign up on their website, call their number at 405-321-7272, or find them on social media.