Former Volunteer Helped by Federation Safety Net

There are countless seniors in our community who, due to financial or physical constraints, cannot shop for, afford, or prepare their own meals. Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW) provides proper nourishment and personal contact to ensure these vulnerable members of the Jewish community are nourished and know they’re not alone. People like Mary know social contact with KMOW delivery volunteers is as important as the meals, themselves – and she knows because she has been on both the giving and receiving ends of the program. 

During the four years Mary volunteered delivering meals for Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS), she and her husband, Frank, also regularly attended senior socialization programs and were known for their turns on the dance floor whenever a musician performed. 

She could not have known the tables would turn for them the day Frank suffered a major stroke.  Frank needed Mary’s full care and attention; she could no longer volunteer delivering meals. 

When the pandemic hit, caring for Frank became more complicated. Mary reached out to KMOW – this time asking for help, themselves. KMOW began delivering regular meals to them, and just as Mary had previously done for so many KMOW clients, the new volunteers made Mary feel connected to the community and assured her she was not alone.

When Frank passed away, Mary no longer needed KMOW, but she knows that should she find herself in need again, our caring community is just a phone call away.

Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW) provide sustenance for those ages 60 and up who are unable to afford, shop for, or prepare nutritious meals at home. Jewish Federation is proud to support our family service partners’ KMOW programs, along with complimentary services enabling seniors to age with dignity and safety in their own homes. Kosher Meals on Wheels are available through Jewish Family Services of Middlesex and Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Monmouth. Learn more at jewishheartnj.org/meals.