In an effort to focus greater public attention on the need for Meals on Wheels volunteers, Erie County Legislator Bob Reynolds (D-12) recently spent a day working as a driver for the senior food delivery program.

Legislator Reynolds with Meals on Wheels
Director Richard Gehring and N. Collins resident

"Meals on Wheels is crucial to the independent lifestyles of so many of our Erie County residents and the shortage of Meals on Wheels drivers is of great concern," Reynolds stated. "So I heartily encourage anyone interested in volunteering their services to this most worthwhile organization to become involved."

Meals on Wheels, a service of the Meals on Wheels of Buffalo and Erie County was established in 1969 for the express purpose of supporting the dignity, well being and independence of people in Buffalo and Erie County through home delivered nutritional services. Through the efforts of approximately three thousand Meals on Wheels volunteers more than 15,000 homebound elderly and disabled Western New Yorkers are served nearly 3 million meals each year.

Richard Gehring, President of Meals on Wheels for Buffalo and Erie County, emphasized the added economic significance of the Meals on Wheels program to Erie County residents.

"What's important to understand about the Meals on Wheels program is that it saves Erie County taxpayers thousands of dollars in medicare and medicaid costs every year," Gehring noted. "For example, the average nursing home costs $62,500 a year, while providing two meals a day to a homebound elder costs Meals on Wheels $2,100 annually. So there is no question that our program is of great value both economically and socially."

In describing his Meals on Wheels experience, Reynolds noted the significance of the project. "Everyone I met while delivering meals was so grateful for the food and told me how much they rely on receiving nourishing food everyday from Meals on Wheels. It made me realize how important this program is to our community and why we all need to support their work."

For more information on volunteering or to refer someone to Meals on Wheels contact Leg. Reynolds District Office at 649-2640 or contact Meals on Wheels directly at 822-2002, e-mail mowbuffalo.com

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