Wayne county volunteers deliver more than meals: A lifeline for seniors
The holiday season is a time to celebrate giving and in Wayne County, volunteers are stepping up to deliver more than just meals—they’re providing companionship and critical wellness checks to seniors.
Organizations like Meals on Wheels and community centers are at the heart of these efforts, serving as daily hubs for food preparation and distribution. Volunteers, often described as the "unsung heroes" of these initiatives, are making a significant impact.
Taylor Singleton, a public health student at Wayne State University, is one among them. Through her practicum course, Singleton has dedicated more than 120 hours this semester to packaging meals, delivering them to seniors and conducting wellness checks during her routes.
“I’ve been here every Monday and Wednesday morning,” Singleton said. “We’re not just delivering meals; we’re ensuring that seniors combat isolation and feel seen and heard.”
These wellness checks provide an opportunity to connect with seniors who often have limited family support. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of this effort to improve food accessibility and support our community’s seniors,” Singleton added.
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans highlighted the importance of these volunteer efforts, especially during the holiday season. “Public health is about providing services to people,” Evans said. “Seeing the next generation bring such passion to this work is truly inspiring.”
As Wayne County celebrates this season of giving, the dedication of its volunteers underscores the powerful impact of community-driven programs. For seniors, it’s not just about the meals—it’s about knowing someone cares.