Carlos’ Story
Recently, Meals on Wheels New Mexico conducted a pilot program that provided assistive technology to meal delivery clients at no cost. This included doorbells for the hard of hearing, devices to make opening food items and doors easier around the home, as well as battery powered motion light sensors for placement anywhere in the home. We reached out to Carlos, a client who lives in the South Valley, to tell us a little more about how these devices have impacted his life.
Carlos spent his career working for the New Mexico Department of Transportation, telling stories of driving across the state, watching our state’s infrastructure grow while also learning of a few places to fill up on the best freshwater around. Originally from Santa Fe, Carlos reminisces about growing up in Northern New Mexico and the great meals he got to experience in the region.
Today, while Carlos is showing us some of the items provided, he is the first to admit his own limitation- “I don’t have…a lot of strength” as he shows us jar and bottle openers and describes how the devices have made tasks such as opening jars easier since that time. “This doorbell is also pretty cool”, Carlos states as he proudly shows off his beautiful home in the South Valley. “The original [doorbell] is only capable of a small ‘dink dink’” and only because of his dogs was Carlos able to hear guests coming to his door. Now, his new doorbell and motion senor lights light up his home and let him know when someone is near.
Carlos also wants folks to know how their generosity makes another big difference in his life. He told us, “the thing that really impacts me…is the meals…any restaurant in town would be proud to serve this food!” As a lifelong New Mexican who has explored the corners of this state, Carlos was equally complimentary of the recipes he grew up eating, as well as the new items he is able to try with our 10-week rotating menu.
This story reflects the impact our clients have on shaping the services we provide. It also highlights the power of your generosity, because you give folks in need so much more than a meal. Carlos and many more of your neighbors now have the tools and the confidence to continue living independently and to age with dignity in their own homes.