Fostering Connection: Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Combats Loneliness and Provides Hope for Seniors in Need
In the rapidly expanding regions of Fort Bend and Waller Counties, an increasing number of seniors find themselves wrestling with the painful triad of isolation, limited resources, and loneliness. According to data, nearly 10% of this demographic, representing the age group of 60 years and above, are incapacitated from work and live on or below the poverty line. Fortunately, the Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels (FBS) provides a beacon of hope and companionship for these seniors in need.
FBS, one of Fort Bend County's oldest non-profit organizations, was established in 1974 and swiftly developed into an essential community resource. The organization's mission focuses on supporting seniors, regardless of income, through the provision of engaging daily activities and nutritious meals. FBS has seen considerable growth since its inception, with 20,000 hot meals served in its first year ballooning to assistance for over 2,300 seniors annually today.
This impact is achieved through a comprehensive suite of services, including the Meals on Wheels program, congregate meals, transportation, case management, and health screenings. The scale and scope of these services have proven instrumental in ensuring seniors retain their independence and continue to actively participate in their communities.
However, the centerpiece of FBS is undoubtedly the Meals on Wheels program. This initiative is facilitated by a dedicated network of staff and volunteers who deliver hot meals to home-bound seniors throughout Fort Bend and Waller Counties, Monday to Friday. Each delivery route takes approximately two hours just one day each week.
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Delivering meals to local seniors has far reaching benefits that go beyond physical nourishment. As one participant shared, "My driver always makes me feel so happy, he greets me with a smile and good morning asking me how I’m doing. I’m so happy with my meals I feel so lucky to have this opportunity.”
Yet, the Meals on Wheels program is only one facet of a greater foster of volunteer opportunities within FBS. Potential volunteers may also sign up to assist at congregate sites, help with meal packing at distribution sites, or participate in special events. Beyond these roles, volunteers can also engage in telephone socialization, provide office clerical assistance, or even organize fundraising events.
These opportunities provide a perfect platform for individuals, groups, or businesses to contribute meaningfully to their community and support seniors in need. Interested parties simply need to reach out to iloveseniors@fortbendseniors.org for meal delivery or senior center options, or development@fortbendseniors.org for special events or other activities. To get started, fill out an application at fortbendseniors.org/volunteer.
Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels not only fills stomachs but also fulfills the crucial human need for companionship and connection. By volunteering, individuals have the opportunity to bring a ray of sunshine into the lives of seniors - and perhaps find their own lives brightened in return.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
