Meals on Wheels in Sudbury has launched a new program to help address loneliness and isolation among seniors and homebound individuals. It’s called the Caring Companion Program, and right now volunteers are needed to take part. “We’ve noticed a lot of these clients are fighting isolation because when our volunteers go to the door, we know it’s the only time they are going to see somebody on that day,” said Tammi Lear, executive director of Meals on Wheels Sudbury. “So having someone there to talk to was a gap that was missing in Sudbury.” Meals on Wheels delivers 180 hot meals a day to those in need, five days a week. Too many people are alone “There are way too many people in our community that are alone,” said Michelle McCullough, Meals on Wheels volunteer coordinator. “Isolation can just lead to so many other health issues. Most of our clients are seniors, so they are already fighting some health issues.” This week, the non-profit launched the Caring Companion Program to offer friendly visits to people living with issues related to isolation. “Once you have somebody to talk to and a friend, it makes a world of difference on your whole demeanour and your outlook on life,” said Lear. Officials said 20 seniors have already signed up, adding that volunteers are needed to offer companionship. “The volunteer that signs up can be placing a phone call once a week,” Lear said. “They can be going in and visiting. Just reaching out to that person so they have more comfort in their life.” Meals on Wheels said it needs volunteer drivers for its meal program. Right now, it covers 13 routes a day with volunteers making those deliveries.
