Meals on Wheels of San Francisco delivers over 16,000 meals to homebound seniors every week. In this special episode of SSC Presents, Loni meets up with Executive Director Ashley McCumber to get an inside look at the operation that has served the city for over 38 years.
Thanks to the help of more than 400 volunteers clients also receive personal attention on other important concerns including running errands, grocery shopping and assistance with special events. All told, it results in an increased quality of life and demonstrates the belief of MOWSF that all seniors have the right to live independently with dignity and respect in their own homes for as long as it is safely possible.
“Urban environments particularly are not like they used to be. Families used to live close by. Neighbors used to know neighbors,” says Ashley McCumber, executive director. “Now, it’s a win-win. There are so many people that are transplants in the city, and they want to be connected in some way beyond work, or a small social circle.”
This is the first video you’ll see Loni appear in with a “fashion forward” hair net (just like Lily Tomlin, McCumber quickly points out in the video) and sans sunglasses.
It was an inspiring visit. There’s nothing better than a community pulling together to help each other out.
“I’m watching my friends age. I’m watching my parents age. I’m watching lots of people age,” McCumber tells Loni. “And I’m wondering who’s there for them, and so it’s really something I can throw myself into wholeheartedly.”
For those looking to lend a hand, there are several ways. Please visit the MOWSF web to see how you can pitch in. Also coming in just a few weeks, on May 16, is the The 23rd Annual Star Chefs & Vintners Gala, the organization’s single largest fundraiser of the year.
In Photos: Meals on Wheels of San Francisco
