In February 1991, Grade 7 students from Armour Heights Public School joined the Meals on Wheels team for a day of deliveries, discovering the power of connection across generations. Organized by their English teacher, Eric Sloan, the initiative aimed to help students understand and engage with a generation they rarely encountered in their daily lives.
The students were moved by the warm reception from clients. “They smiled. They don’t very often see younger people, so they were happy,” shared 12-year-old Benjie Thompson, reflecting on the appreciation they witnessed. Brent Watson, Benjie’s classmate, remarked on the practicality of the program and the quality of the meals: “Meals on Wheels is a handy system, and the meals looked good.”
The experience shattered stereotypes for many of the students, who were surprised by the energy and spirit of the seniors they met. One exclaimed that a client was “like a house on fire!” Sloan noted how this realization helped students develop a newfound respect and understanding for older generations.
This memorable day underscores the heart of Meals on Wheels: creating meaningful connections, not just through the delivery of food but also by bridging gaps between generations. Volunteers often share how the program inspires them, seeing their potential future in the clients they serve. Their hope is for the service to endure, ensuring its availability for those who may one day need it themselves.
Meals on Wheels remains a testament to the profound impact of community and compassion, fostering relationships that enrich lives at every age.
To learn more about volunteering with Meals on Wheels or any of Community Care Peterborough’s services, contact Andrea at adunkley@commcareptbo.org or 705-742-7067.
