BELL COUNTY, Texas — The Bell County Meals on Wheels Program is asking the community for help in delivering fresh meals to seniors in Killeen, Belton and Temple.
The program is said to deliver over 10,000 meals a month to Bell County seniors, and as many as 500 meals per day.
To do this, it requires a lot of hands to get the meals passed out around the community. That's why they are asking for more volunteers and donations to get the job done.
Hill Country Community Action Association CEO Ashley Johnson says they serve Meals on Wheels across eight counties, but Bell County is by far the largest as it accounts for about 53% of the meals served.
While the need for this program has increased, it's facing some road blocks now.
The program is getting its meals from a third-party provider and the cost has increased about 20% over the last three years. With the amount of meals being passed out yearly, this increase places a heavy burden on the program's finances.
"It's more than just a meal," Johnson said. "It's a wellness check. It's a social interaction. It's all of those things included because sometimes that may be the only person some of these people see during the day. I have delivered meals many times. It's a wonderful experience. I would encourage anybody who has the time to become a volunteer."
The power of a knock is something Meals on Wheels volunteer Connie Franks looks forward to every week. She encourages those who are curious to join her along for the ride.
"I think people are hesitant about giving up some time of their day," Franks said. "But it's a quick route, and you touch their hearts, and they touch ours as well. Each day is full of small chances to do something good. I think it's what we're doing here providing meals, but also doing something good for others."
There are currently 11 routes to fill with 8 to 15 stops. Volunteers would pick up meals from the Belton Senior Center and deliver them to the designated location.
It's important to note the Belton Senior Center is a separate nonprofit.
"I don't think a lot of people really understand the relationship between us," Johnson added. "We provide the meals, they provide the programming."
If you would like to donate or learn more, visit here.
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