COVID-19 has left no population untouched, and it is perhaps our seniors who have been disproportionately hit the hardest. They face a much higher risk of illness and even death, which is exacerbated by increased social isolation and loneliness created from social distancing. 

At the same time, few industries have been hit harder than hospitality and tourism. Activity came to a virtual halt when the pandemic hit and, for Hilton, this decline translated to a difficult and unprecedented operating business environment. Watching this unfold, Hilton wanted to do something to help alleviate the suffering that so many were experiencing. So, they reached out to Meals on Wheels America.

The result was a partnership that deployed Hilton’s call center technology and staff, eager to volunteer their time, to place weekly phone calls to hundreds of Meals on Wheels of Arlington, Virginia's senior clients sheltering at home and alone. During these weekly calls, volunteers ask seniors if they have the food and supplies they need and how they are feeling and exchange friendly conversation. Mr. Morris is one of the Meals on Wheels clients fortunate enough to be on the other end of those calls.

Mr. Morris has seen plenty of good and bad during his 98 years. He is a World War II veteran who has found great joy and fulfilling companionship for most of his life through his membership at First Baptist Church Clarendon in Clarendon, VA. “I sang in the choir for 60 or 70 years,” Morris explained. The pandemic, however, has changed his life, making it particularly difficult for him because he lives alone. And yet, this story is one of how he found a new source of friendship through an unlikely source.

“It’s been good, really. A gentleman calls just about every week and we get to talk about our meals and things, and what we do, and the activities we have for our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. I enjoy it,” said Mr. Morris. 

Another of these lucky Meals on Wheels clients dubbed the volunteers their “Calling Angels” because of the critical service and friendship they provide. 

A hallmark of the Meals on Wheels service is the friendly visit that accompanies the food delivery, and local programs have had to pivot to safely serve clients during these unprecedented times.

Despite an increase in demand of nearly 100% since the pandemic started, local staff and volunteers refuse to yield on their efforts to serve every senior who needs their help. This has spawned a host of new, innovative ways to safely serve their clients. Making phone calls to seniors who live alone is just one example of the ways corporate volunteers have stepped up to help and provide a lifeline for millions of seniors sheltering in place.

Meals on Wheels has seen an incredible outpouring of support during this difficult time. Regular people everywhere have stepped up, spoken up and given generously to help however they can. Will you be next? 

Connect with your local Meals on Wheels program and let them know you are available to contribute your time, your donations or any other resource that can make a difference.