Darlene joined the Grocery Assistance Program (GAP) at Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland three years ago after a series of health issues. “I’ve always been a type-A personality with lots of energy. Thirty-five years ago, I had a couple strokes, which has impacted my mobility. For the last 15 years, I have lived in an apartment with other seniors. A few of us cook for each other and we watch out for each other,” remarked Darlene.
Darlene doesn’t have a vehicle and has a hard time getting around, venturing to the grocery store was a difficult and unpleasant experience. “I don’t have a car. It’s extremely hard for me to get around. When I found out about this Meals on Wheels program, I was really excited about it.”
After joining the GAP program, Darlene was paired up with a volunteer, Valerie who regularly grocery shops for her, and delivers the products to her home. Darlene and Valerie have developed a strong and trusting relationship. “I was lucky to get someone like Valerie to volunteer. If I order something and they don’t have it, she will call me. She is exceedingly kind – exceptionally kind. This is a real asset. It makes me feel that I can trust her. It’s a really nice relationship,” said Darlene.
The partnership with Darlene has worked out well. Valerie says, “My second daughter got married and we became empty nesters. I have always been involved in volunteering with my kids’ school and my church. I’ve always known about Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland, but I didn’t know about the GAP program which works well for my schedule. It was perfect for me!”
Valerie genuinely enjoys shopping for Darlene and has built a solid relationship with her over the years. “It doesn’t take any time at all. It’s not time-consuming or a burden. It’s important to me if she calls. I try my best to have it for her the next morning or within two days, I’m also impressed with Darlene’s spirit and spunk. She is immensely helpful to the neighbors in her building. Her energy for her age is amazing, and her desire to help other people as well,” said Valerie.
The Grocery Assistance Program teams up a volunteer and a client, where the volunteer shops consistently for the client’s grocery and/or other household needs. This program is designed for client’s who have difficulty making it to the grocery store, but still want to prepare their own meals.