May 9—The Lake County Council on Aging's Meals on Wheels program needs volunteer drivers to deliver meals at least one day per week Mondays through Fridays, agency officials recently announced.

Drivers deliver lunchtime meals to homebound seniors between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

In support of addressing the critical need, officials added, the Lake County Volunteer Network at the Lake County Commissioners Office is offering $50 Giant Eagle gift cards to new volunteers who sign-up to deliver a route for at least three months.

"We are excited to offer this small incentive to new drivers," said Commissioner John Hamercheck. "Funding for this is provided through an AmeriCorps Seniors federal grant which aims to help communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic."

According to the Council on Aging, the program serves as "a great opportunity to volunteer as an individual or duo, with a family member or a friend, and to meet people within the community."

Volunteers can deliver out of Madison, Mentor, Painesville, Wickliffe or Willowick.

"This is a small commitment that has a huge impact on the community," said Commissioner John Plecnik.

Additionally, benefits include the opportunity for social interaction between the volunteers and the meal recipients, noted Coordinator Cristen Kane, as deliveries offer a chance for a "friendly smile and a face-to-face greeting" that serves as a wellness check.

"While meal deliveries mean so much to seniors, they also offer much to the volunteers as well," said Commissioner Richard Regovich. "Meals on Wheels volunteers reap the physical and mental benefits of giving back and being a part of the community."

For more information, contact Volunteer Services Network Coordinator Cristen Kane at 440-350-5360 or cristen.kane@lakecountyohio.gov.