Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County

I am a long time volunteer with Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County and this is by far by favorite local charity! In over 15 years, I have never meet an employee that was not truly concerned with the mission, or a volunteer that didn't love what they do and the people on their route. There is so much more to this organization than just a meal. Many times they have found someone just in time, or replaced an air conditioner when temperatures outside are over 100 degrees. Sometimes it is something so simple as to provide food for a special loved pet or making sure the medicines they are taking can all get along together. This organization truly allows people to live in their homes longer and with a better quality of life. I always say that I am paying it forward so they will be there in the future when I need them.

I have been volunteering on committees with Meals on Wheels, Inc of Tarrant County for over 13 years and this organization always surpasses my expectations in all ways. A very strong belief in their mission allows this organization to accomplish great things. They provide not only the basic need of daily nutrition but many other things that help keep our senior citizens out of nursing homes and in their homes they love. With the ever increasing costs of nursing homes any person we can keep in their home, saves us taxpayers money and also adds a quality of life to the senior citizen. Every year I am amazed at the very small amount of overhead required by this organization in order to accomplish their mission. Every penny possible goes to helping someone with some type of need. I'm honored to have any association with Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County.

I was introduced to Meals On Wheels years ago when I learned that my grandfather delivered meals. It was his way of giving back. When my grandfather passed away my parents and brother and sister decided to get involved with Meals On Wheels of Tarrant County to honor my grandfather. The day I delivered my first meal was eye-opening. The clients are so nice and grateful to see someone every day. A little bit of kindness at the right moment can make someone’s day better. I learned so much from my experience. I feel it is my way to pay it forward in my community by delivering meals, planning and/or attending events and being an active board member. Meals On Wheels delivers meals and so much more to home-bound citizens in our community that have little or no help with meal preparation. At this time- my whole family (parents, siblings, spouses and friends) are all involved with Meals On Wheels in delivering meals, money donations, sponsoring, attending and supporting events.

I currently volunteer delivering meals and have for nearly 4 years. I have volunteered with several different organizations and have found Meals on Wheels Tarrant County to be one of the best non-profits ever when it comes to providing a meaningful service. These meals help keep people in their homes longer which is a joy for them as well as a positive economical impact for the communities. I will continue to volunteer with them as long as I am able.

As a donor and volunteer, I see how much more Meals on Wheels TC does than just deliver meals. They provide a way for seniors to stay in their homes. They provide resources for those that need them. They provide a friendly face and listening ear. They preserve dignity!
MOW is a good steward of their resources.

Meals on Wheels goes above and beyond to help the community and care for the elderly. They fulfill a need that most people do not know exists until they are the ones in need. Providing more than meals, but a since of family, friendship and companionship to not only their clients but every house on each route. Neighbors, family members and caregivers all feel the comfort of knowing a volunteer will be back soon.

Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County is one of the most efficient charities in Tarrant County. They do amazing work and keep people out of the hospital and nursing homes by enabling them to live independently at home.

Meals-on-Wheels of Tarrant County has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to serve our local Metroplex community. I have been delivering Meals-on-Wheels for over 22 Years (since 1994). The staff at the Meals-on-Wheels Fort Worth center are always gracious, supporting and quick to assist. The clients receiving the meals are friendly and grateful. I've always finished the deliveries and felt better lending a hand for the benefit of all.

I drive for Meals on Wheels and personally hear each week how important this one meal every day means to so many. I typically have 8 on my route each week and enjoy a few minutes talking with most of them about their day, how they're feeling, etc. I'm pretty sure almost every person who receives a daily meal appreciates not only the food but also a smiling face at their door. But I feel like I'm the one who truly benefits as just spending a few minutes brightening the day of (mostly but not always) our seniors really makes my day..they are truly special to me!

My husband and I are retired. We have 17 grandchildren and our family is scattered around the country. We volunteer as substitutes for the regular volunteers when they cannot drive their regular route. This gives us the flexibility to travel while helping the Meals on Wheels organization fulfill a critical need in our community. It takes so little time. Debbie, the MOW scheduler and the clients are always appreciative. We feel we get back much more than we give in helping MOW serve those in need.

I drove for MOW for over 20 years, now unable to continue. Meeting my clients, visiting with each one for few minutes, helped them. but also me. Their positive attitudes, gratitude for the meal and for the drivers, was overwhelming. Each of them helped me too, to know each one and their stories.

I have helped Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County during the summer when the students from our campus are unavailable to run their designated route . I can tell you that the individuals that receive the meals are so very grateful. I can also tell you that it is a lot of work for the volunteers and the Meals on Wheels staff making sure that the recipients have lunch, see a caring, friendly face and have a much needed wellness checkup.

Delivering meals for over 20 years keeps reminding me of the many homebound people in need who live in our neighborhod and who are "invisible" to the community at large. A great organization that does so much more than just delivering a meal.

I cannot say enough good about the MOW. The volunteers are so wonderful. God bless them all. I m on oxygen and the folks that deliver my meal to me are so nice and helpful, always, they ask if there is anything they can do for me. This week they have given to me Xmas presents. I will open them eagerly on Christmas morning, but I want to thank all the folks that have been so kind to me. Thank you all for your kindness and your generosity of your time. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to each of you. God Bless you all.

Altough I no longer volunteer, I feel Meals on Wheels is a great organziation. Not only do they provide nutritious meals, but they also provide companionship. I loved the people I delivered food to like my own family. One gentleman I got to know very well and when I had to return to work, I truly missed talking with him. This is a great program that shows people who might otherwise be alone, that there are still people that care about them.

I have recently started volunteering as a substitute in the Keller & Watauga area. I deliver meals on my lunch hour. This has been a very rewarding experience. Because my route is new each time it takes me a while longer to deliver than their regular delivery person. No matter what time I deliver they are always glad to see me, always appreciative for the meals I deliver. They often share a little story with me and always have a smile on their face. I know that for many this the only way they can continue to live independently. It insures that have healthy meals each day and I often wonder if it is the meal or the social contact they look forward to most. Often they are waiting at the door when I get out of car. I love this ministry. This is a great group to volunteer with and they are so highly organized it is amazing. Thanks so much for this opportunity to serve.

I have been reciving meals for sometime now and without MOW I would go hungry. The volenteers that delivier are some of the nicest people I have ever had the joy to be in contact with. There is one special lady that I am so proud to know. You can tell by her smile and caring voice that she is truly decitated to the people on her route. She is such a special person. Always has time to say hello and how are you doing. This lady puts the joy in my day. Thank You Meals on Wheels for all you do.

I deliver meals every Monday and substitute on routes when I'm able. If my schedule would allow, I would deliver most everyday. I so enjoy seeing the people, and I have delivered or substituted on at least 10 different routes. Every client is very appreciative and engaging. Each and everyone is a delight. It is my pleasure to be able to help in this effort.

I have been delivering meals for MOW for many years. I recently moved to Fort Worth, so I got in touch with the Tarrant County MOWI to let them know my interest in volunteering. They responded to my request and welcomed me with friendly faces and an unsurpassed training. The training session was helpful and informative, even though I had experience in delivering. And their facility blew me away! The kitchen is unbelievable! I'm proud to be associated with this wonderful, talented, caring group.

When I resigned my full time job I wanted to do something to give back. My husband talked me into delivering Meals on Wheels. I figured, OK I will try it for a little while. That was over 5 years ago and I still deliver. The clients are always so happy to see you, and the staff of Meals is absolutely awesome. I have never seen anything but smiles, never heard anything but positive feelings. With as many volunteers as they have, they know every one of us and if something happens and you have to cancel a day they never ever tell you you are making their life difficult. I will keep doing this till I can no longer do so, which hopefully will be a long time away.

I have known about Meals On Wheels for many years, but only recently signed up to deliver meals. I had no idea that it required so very little time to deliver, but would be so very rewarding. I have met some of the most wonderful people in the clients and volunteers while making my rounds. I only wish that I got involved several years ago!

Each Wednesday, I take two different Fort Worth Academy middle students to assist on our Meals on Wheels route. The clients love seeing young people! The Tarrant County Meals on Wheels is a very well run organization. The quality of the meals is fabulous! There is a choice of entrees, if you can imagine. The meals are delivered to the volunteers on time. They provide breakfast also t the clients! What a fabulous service for the elderly and disabled. It is not easy to run a non-profit business so efficiently! They also respond quickly to any concerns reported about any of the clients. Our student rotation is such, that each student usually goes once a year. They beg to return! Thanks MOW for providing such fabulous service to the elderly and handicapped in the area and for providing a great opportunity for our students to participate in a service learning project.

I am a believer of this organization. I am a board member but also have delivered meals for over 2 years. The clients are given wonderful meals that they enjoy. I constantly get positive comments from clients about how good the food is and how easy it is to sign up. Everyone goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the clients are looked after and taken care of.

"Who is my neighbor?", someone once asked Jesus. I've had the opportunity to find that answer -- each time I've headed out as a fill-in driver, staring at a Mapsco printout of an area just outside the neighborhood I'm familiar with, and watching the clock. The main office staff has never lost patience with me when I've called for directions. The office also faithfully reminds me of the opportunity to serve each summer, when it's vacation time and I leave my classroom. I started this journey about 15 years ago. I continued it as a very expectant first-time mother; shared these memories when I brought my godchildren along; and expanded it to my younger son -- who still asks when we're going to get to go visit the grandmas and the grandpas again. This journey has nourished us all. Thank you.

Everything about Meals on Wheels has been an extremely positive experience, and I feel privileged to be able to be part of such an efficiently-organized and smoothly-functioning organization. From the training day to the site meal pickups, professionalism and dedication are clearly evident. I come home feeling very blessed myself every time I am called upon to subsitute drive a route and take meals to clients. Their appreciation is heartfelt.

MOW has allowed me to participate in a very soul satisfying experience. The service without a doubt is a lifesaver for those that receive the meals and daily contact. However for me it's a simple commitment to keep me focused on my faith. Serving reiterates the message to me that we are here to give and not take. The mechanics of MOW is very well organized. It is nice to be met with a smile and a helping hand at the pick-up sites. Daily thousands in the DFW metroplex are delivered a meal and warm greeting - what a way to spread hope.

Delivering meals to the people on my route has been one of the best experiences of my life. I have always wanted to volunteer for Meals on Wheels (MOW)of Tarrant County, but did not have the availability to do so until this year. The staff at MOW are very well organized and they care deeply about their clients and the volunteers. If you want to provide a valuable service to your community while getting to know wonderful people, I highly recommend you volunteer for Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County.

I know I am helping my clients get a good healthy meal AND being able to check up on them when I deliver the noon meal. They are always happy to see me coming too.

I work with Meals on Wheels, Inc of Tarrant County once a week in a local distribution center and I also have a route one day a week, as do many other volunteers that I talk with. I've found both jobs rewarding. The people in the main distribution center do an excellent job of getting the meals exact to the needed counts, which makes our job easy. I talk with the drivers as they pick up their meals and see the goodness in their hearts. Many have done this for years and enjoy every minute of it. They know their people very well and comment when they're not on the list. I also enjoy talking with the drivers that do the same route that I do on another day. They have enhanced my knowledge of many of the customers on my route, which has been beneficial. The customers I deliver to are always so happy to see me and appreciative of their meals. They always greet me with a smile and sometimes a story. Some need a hug every once in awhile, which I am happy to give and receive back from them. I find that the short 1 - 2 hours a day, twice a week spent on this worthwhile cause is a blessing to me and I hope to do this for a very long time.

After 20 + years of delivering meals in Fort Worth, it is still gratifying to help the elderly live independent lives in their own homes.Seeing some clients in dire physical and financial situations respond to the question "how are you today" with a big smile (few teeth) and " I am blessed "gives me perspective in life.And where else can I go and be referred to as youg man! SR

My husband and I had been delivering meals for nearly 25 years. My husband was also on the board. While my husband passed last year, I am still delivering after a short gap after he died. I think they do a lot of good and obviously We thought a lot of the orgination since we have delivered for so many years. We have gone through three drop off staions and all havae been excellent. Terry

I have delivered for over 3 years now and can't think of a better ran and mor caring organization. It is an honor to serve with the countless number of volunteers and workers of Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County!

I work with a half-dozen non-profit organizations, and Meals on Wheels does the best job of screening and staying in touch with clients. I have not encountered a bad staff attitude during 16 years of volunteering at various Meals locations throughout Tarrant County. When necessary, the paid staff will step in and deliver meals. The long-time director, Carla Jutson, is very friendly and outgoing.

I am a substitute driver in the Mid Cities area. As such I am able to work around my schedule which is very convenient. The schedulers give me plenty of notice of their needs. Having a peek into other people's lives can be very instructive and very humbling. Every route is a lesson in gratitude for me. There are some truly wonderful clients on my routes who are able to brigthen MY day by their cheerfulness and sincere thanks. I do several volunteer activities but I can truly say that Meals on Wheels is my favorite.

I have been delivering for Meals on Wheels for over 2 years. It is the most gratifying "job" I have ever had - everyone, from the staff in the office to the clients receiving the meals are so appreciative of your time and efforts. I have been on the same route for over a year now and have gotten to know the clients and their families. It's been nothing short of a blessing to be involved with this organization !

I have been a volunteer with Meals on Wheels for about 25 years. I started out with a weekly route, and when I went back to work I became a substitute driver, and still drive most every week. My 4 children have all participated as they grew up with the deliveries, and we all have many fond memories of some our favorite clients. Providing food to those who are in need is something that I feel very proud to be involved with, but at the same time is a very humbling experience. I wouldn't trade it for anything!

I recently began volunteering as a substitute delivery individual and realize how fortunate I am to have contact with so many less fortunate individuals that are very warm, receptive and thankful for MOW. In most instances, these people are really upbeat and make me feel very humble and thankful.

I coordinate our company's volunteer schedule and have been involved with Meals on Wheels many times over the years. They provide a wonderful service to delivery meals to homebound and elderly individuals. They organize this service for thousands every day and do so with compassion. It is a wonderful organization and I'm so honored to have been associated with it!

I am self employed but volunteered 1 1/2 years ago to be a substitute driver. I have been so impressed with the organization and the service, second to none that I have ever been involved with. But, the best part is the clients. They are all grateful for MOW, but more importantly they inspire me. Many have special needs but face life with a determination that I am not sure I would have in their circumstances. Many have told me that MOW Tarrant County helps them keep that determination.

I have been delivering meals through Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County for several years now. It is one of the most gratifying recurring experiences of my life and, more importantly, helps address an urgent need for folks who have so many challenges. The basic need for food is, obviously, addressed. Beyond that, though, people who can easily be (and feel) neglected and forgotten by our society are cared for in a very direct and personal way. Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County is providing a crucial service and is doing so with compassion and excellence.

When my youngest went to school, I started volunteering for Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County. I took my children with me during the summers. They were so taken by the clients that they would ask about them when school started. I begin to work for Meals, had to take a leave, and a few years later came back. I now take care of Client Services and don't know where to begin. We have painted homes, repaired roofs, put in smoke alarms, installed convertor boxes, given out toliet raisers, rollators, wheelchairs, hospital beds, canes, shower chairs, walkers, have a food pantry, help feed pets, help sick pets, help neuter pets, help with transportation, have a program for volunteers to make weekly visits and run errands, and have even replaced water heaters. Can you believe that there's more? There is - one client, 82 years old, needed a light replaced in her hallway. My volunteer was there that day. Another had his mailbox knocked down. My volunteer not only fixed it for him, but gave him his number and told him to call any time. During this holiday season, if you feel down on mankind, help out with Meals On Wheels. It will change your life. People who need help ARE helped. It can be the smallest of projects, but can make a world of difference to our client. Volunteers start out to help others, they stay because it makes THEM feel good.

When I made the decision to volunteer for meals on wheels I was nervous about finding the addresses. But they have all the tools you need and my team and I have a great time taking turns delivering the meals. It truly gives me a sense of accomplishment knowing that I have helped. I'm sure our visit may be the only contact some of the people have and I enjoy being there for them.

As a volunteer with Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County I have been impressed with every aspect of the organization. The staff within their main office is friendly and organized. The delivery volunteers are equipped with training and are screened for suitability. The routes are mapped out with helpful detailing. The privacy of their clients is well protected. The meals seem to be very healthy, balanced and well proportioned. The clients appear to greatly benefit from these aspects of the meals as well as their regular delivery. The organization regularly expresses appreciation to its volunteers.

I fill in when needed. I was called one morning to do a last minute fill in and, of course, this time of year there's so much to do and my schedule was full but I hesitantly said okay. When I got to my pick up, I had 11 stops, a record for me, and I thought, "This is going to take forever." As I slowly covered the route, not knowing my stops or locations, I arrived at an elderly lady's apartment and she asked me to shut the door. I tried to explain to her I was running late with many stops left and reluctantly shut the door. She proceeded to hand me a beautiful angel she had knitted and told me to look up. The room was dark, with her shades shut to her sliding glass door with a CD slipped under the curtain where the sun reflected. She said, "Do you see my rainbow? You are my angel for today! Thank you for bringing me my dinner." My special angel hangs in my kitchen/family room so I can see it daily and reminded that a little time and kindness is priceless to one that waits daily to share her rainbow and an angel made with love. By giving our time we receive so much more! Kathy

For the past 18 months, I (along with a co-worker) deliver Meals on Wheels on Fridays to clients in East Fort Worth. Leaving the office, stopping by to pick up the meals, and delivering to 10 or so clients and returning to the office takes just a little over an hour. In that hour, we have an opportunity to bring a hot meal to those who would not otherwise receive one, a chance to visit with a co-worker that in the normal course of business we may not be able to do, and the opportunity to receive many kind and appreciative words from the clients. I can always count on hearing "God Bless You" every Friday. What an easy way to make a difference in someone's life and enjoy time with a co-worker. My company has a strong commitment to being good citizens in our community. Partnering with Meals on Wheels allows that to happen. Meals on Wheels not only supplies its clients with noon meal delivery, but also provides breakfast and weekend meals to qualified clients along with a laundry list of other client services. This organization runs on a lean budget and uses its funding to get the most "bang for the buck". Month after month, I continue to be impressed at how far MOW can stretch its dollars and how many people in Tarrant County they are able to help. Way to go, Meals on Wheels!!!

I am grateful for Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County because the people there are so caring and helpful to those of us who volunteer to deliver. They are competent, patient, and always follow through when it is necessary to make changes. We are all blessed to have MOW for people in Tarrant County who need them.

As a former volunteer, fundraiser and board member I can tell you this is one of the most well respected, well run organizations you will ever have the pleasure to work with. Everything is about the client'd needs, today and in the future.

I've been volunteering for Meals on Wheels for over a year now. I'm so glad to be part of this wonderful organization and to be able to help those in my community who aren't able to provide themselves with a hot, nutrious meal everyday. Meals on Wheels not only provides hot, nutritous meals but they do so with a warm and caring heart.

Meals on Wheels provides a great opportunity to provide a significant service to homebound individuals in need of a meal. The service mission is uncomplicated and clear and the payback to a volunteer is immediate - face to face contact with clients who are so appreciative of the service. Organizational overhead is minimal - volunteers provide the "nuts and bolts" of the service plan. Site volunteers organize and package the meals for pickup. Delivery volunteers pick up the meals and deliver them directly to clients in their homes. Meals on Wheels provides an essential, core service.

This is my second time to volunteer for MOW. While living in Sherman several years ago, I delivered meals on my lunch hour. Today, I am retired and wanted to give back to my community. I have been delivering in this area for two years. I also run errands and do small tasks for any of my clients who have needs. This is also volunteer time. My grandsons love to help me deliver when they are in town. The clients love interaction with children. This year I have a partner and along with meals, we also deliver hugs to those who need them. It has been a wonderful experience, and I am very blessed by their smiles and gratitude.

Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County is a very efficiently run and service oriented organization. There are many long-term, dedicated staff members, board members and donors and volunteers. They not only provide nutritious meals for clients, they make sure their basic human needs are met. For instance, they distribute heaters in the cold weather and fans in the hot summer. They provide transportation services on a case by case basis, as needed. They coordinate other human service agencies with clients as specific needs are identified. Great team and I am proud and honored to be a part of it!

I love this organization. I volunteered and delivered meals for 3 years. I found the clients warm, appreciative, and it gave me a new awareness and perspective of our older neighbors in our community which I have carried with me for years after this volunteering experience. The only reason I stopped is I accepted a new job which did not allow me the flex-time during weekdays to deliver meals. I miss volunteering with this organization very much.