In 1985, Dr. Elisabeth Adams recognized that some of her patients were in need of meals. While she would often cook for them, she realized there needed to be a better solution. She spoke with Guilford’s clergy and Meals on Wheels was born.

“Because of her nudging, the Guilford clergy came together, formed this group, provided seed money [and] a board of directors, and the organizational support it needed to begin,” said Joann Carson, director of the Guilford Interfaith Volunteers (GIV), which oversees the Meals on Wheels program among others.

Carson began volunteering with Meals on Wheels through the Guilford Newcomers when she moved to town 10 years ago. After some time volunteering, she took a position as the director of Charlie’s Closet, moving up to director of the GIV, formerly known a Guilford Interfaith Ministry.

“It was a wonderful way to get to know the community,” said Carson. “It gave me a wonderful feeling, and there was a wonderful spirit in the office that made me want to do more.”

The Meals on Wheels started by serving 12 hot meals a week, with that number growing to 90. The program serves meals five days a week, thanks to a team of about 75 volunteers who accumulate about 19,000 miles of driving each year. Over the 30-year history of the program, 480,000 meals have been delivered.

“It’s amazing, but just as amazing, or maybe more so, are our volunteers,” said Carson. “Their dedication goes beyond. They are out there in hot weather, cold weather, ice, and snow. They are out there every week and are just fantastic.”

Volunteers are always needed and can deliver meals once a week, once a month, or on an as-needed basis. Five volunteers deliver 95 meals a day, Monday through Friday, to all corners of Guilford.

The meals are prepared in the Community Center kitchen by chef Larry Santamaria and his team. The Town of Guilford provides the kitchen and the staff, and Meals on Wheels provides the food and the packaging.

“One of things that makes our program work is partnership with the Town of Guilford—the town’s part is huge,” said Carson. “A large amount of our funding comes from the Guilford Community Fund contributions, and both are essential to the success of our program.”

Carson noted that the program is funded locally, not receiving any federal or state funds, which “allows us to serve our clients without any delay or red tape.” There are no age restrictions, financial restrictions, or applications. Those in need of meals can call the office and receive a meal the next day. The cost of the meals is based on a sliding scale with no meal costing more than $4.

Looking at the Meals on Wheels program’s 30-year history, the number of meals served, the many volunteers, and the community support, Carson is thankful.

“The community is so supportive of us and I’m thankful to be a part of this community,” she said. “We’re able to deliver nutritious meals to our neighbors, and that’s made possible because our community is so generous.”

To volunteer or to receive meals, call 203-453-8359. For information, visit gimct.org/meals.html or email gim.dir@att.net.