Cathy has been a volunteer driver with Meals on Wheels for over four years. A friend was a volunteer and asked her to join on a route one day. She enjoyed it and decided to sign up herself. She says, “I love taking meals to clients!” She finds that she has a connection with all the clients around her own age, and loves building relationships with those with similar life experiences.

Cathy says her impression of Meals on Wheels from the beginning was that “everyone is kind, and the processes are well organized.” She wants community members to know that you don’t have to be a senior to receive meals. She has neighbors on her route that are caregivers who receive meals along with their clients, so they can eat together. “That is what makes you all unique, that you serve anyone of any age for any reason.”

Mary grew up in El Pueblo, New Mexico, and moved to Albuquerque in 1971 to get a job as a teacher. In her late 70’s she began having trouble walking, so she retired and now uses a walker. She says, “My legs just gave out.”    

No longer able to cook for herself, Mary tried other local meal delivery programs without any luck. Finally, last year, she landed at Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque, and she is thrilled to receive her delicious meals. She says, “I love my Meals on Wheels meals.”     

As she arrives at the front door, assisted by her walker, she is all smiles and excited to see her volunteer driver. The driver graciously agrees to follow Mary inside and puts her meal in the kitchen for her. Mary is so thrilled to have a friendly face to visit with for a few minutes each day.   

When asked what she would say to others considering meal delivery from Meals on Wheels she says, “I wish they would get them, because they are really good!” 

Born in Louisiana in 1950, Raquel* is a vibrant woman with a big heart. A passionate quilter full of stories, she moved to New Mexico to be close to her daughter after her husband of 40 years passed away.

In the nine years since, she has lived alone and had several surgeries where recovery has often been long and painful. Though she has care and immense love from her family, she realized she needed additional support.

This is where Meals on Wheels came in. Delivering healthy meals and friendship to Raquel throughout the week, she “doesn’t know where she’d be without them.” She raves about how “AMAZING!” the food is. To her, Meals on Wheels has been a true blessing providing her with companionship and balanced meals.

Raquel especially loves her favorite volunteer, Janice. She brings light into her life each time she knocks on her door.