Martha's Vineyard Meals On Wheels Needs Volunteers

EDGARTOWN, MA — Martha's Vineyard is experiencing a surge in need for its Meals On Wheels services amid the coronavirus crisis and needs additional volunteers to meet them.

Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands said demand for the service is up 16 percent since prior to the pandemic.

"This program is vitally important," Elders Services of CC and the Islands said. "The recipients receive a nutritious meal, a well-being check, and a friendly hello by the caring volunteers who deliver to them."

Meals are delivered to seniors 60 years old or older, Monday through Friday, by volunteer drivers. Meals are picked up at the meal site by 9:30 a.m. and take roughly one to two hours to deliver.

Elder Services of CC and the Islands said protocols are in place when it comes to masks, hand sanitizers and contactless delivery to help protect drivers and those receiving meals. Training is provided and mileage reimbursement is available.

"Volunteer on your own, partner with a spouse, or adopt a route with a group or business," the organization said. "Your commitment can be daily, once weekly, once monthly, or be placed on a substitute list."

Those interested in volunteering should contact Michele Dupon, MV Meal Coordinator, at 508-693-4393 Ext. 192, or Dawn Ericson-Taylor, Volunteer Resource Manager, at 508-394-4630 or dawnericson-taylor@escci.org.