News

At 87 years old, VON client Alice values the comfort of staying in her own home. After years of independence, everyday tasks have become more challenging. But with the right support, she continues to live safely and comfortably in the place she knows and loves.

Through VON’s Meals on Wheels (MOW) program, Alice receives regular meal deliveries that help take one thing off her plate, ensuring she has access to nutritious food without the need to cook.

For Alice, that moment of connection when her MOW volunteer arrives is just as meaningful as the meal itself. Living independently can sometimes mean quieter days, and even brief interactions can bring a sense of routine, familiarity and comfort.

“It’s nice to have those meals,” she shares. “And it’s nice you get a little bit of social time with somebody that comes to your door.”

That “somebody” is Brian, a VON volunteer who delivers meals in Alice’s community, bringing not only food, but a friendly face she has come to recognize and appreciate.

Brian began volunteering with VON following the pandemic, initially looking for a way to give back. What started as a simple commitment quickly became something much more meaningful. Over time, he saw firsthand how important these small, consistent interactions can be, especially for older adults living alone.

“The common thing, especially with senior clients, is loneliness,” Brian explains. “They love it when you show up. They wait for you.”

For many clients, that moment at the door may be the only interaction they have that day or even that week. “I always look forward to him coming,” Alice says.

Brian makes a point to check in, share a few words and ensure each delivery is a positive experience. That ability to connect is what makes him a valued volunteer across the community.

“Brian is a favourite of a lot of the clients. He also volunteers doing transportation. They request him,” says Kathy Thomas, Manager of Home and Community Care at VON Canada. “He is kind, funny and quickly becomes their friend, so they are happy to see him come or have him drive them. He often goes above and beyond and makes their day.”

For Alice, that care and consistency are felt, every visit. “We exchange words at the door. I enjoy his company,” she says.

Programs like Meals on Wheels play a vital role in supporting older adults to live safely and independently at home. Just as importantly, they create moments of connection, small but meaningful interactions that can brighten someone’s day and reduce feelings of isolation.

For volunteers like Brian, it is about more than delivering a service. It is about showing up, building trust and making each visit count.

Learn more about our programs and services and how you can support clients like Alice, by visiting von.ca/ways-to-give.