Elm Court Center Meals

Meals on Wheels People’s Elm Court Center is a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals in our community. Volunteer Ellen has not only witnessed its transformative influence firsthand but has also been an integral part of this compassionate outreach.

A Portland-based artist, Ellen and her friend Barb began volunteering about two years ago. Every Thursday, they show up at the Elm Court Center at 9:30 a.m., load meals into one of their cars — they take turns driving ­— and head to Marshall Union Manor to deliver a week’s worth of meals to eight or nine older adults.

Over time, they’ve fostered deep connections with them, understanding their diverse backgrounds, challenges, strengths, and personal stories. “We’ve been doing the same route the whole time, so we know the clients really well,” Ellen says. “There’s a sense that they really rely on us and depend on us. It’s sweet and also a lot of responsibility.”

Ellen and Barb deliver meals to people who live with the aftermath of trauma, addiction, and mental health issues, while others, like a war veteran, grapple with brain damage. They strive to offer support, companionship, and, at times, additional resources. The gratitude and trust they receive from the clients are immeasurable.

Ellen believes that while the meals are crucial, it’s the human interaction that truly enrich the lives of the older adults they deliver to. Even a simple conversation can mean the world to someone feeling isolated. “The food is important to all of them, but it’s the consistency,” she says. “It’s the relationship that we have developed with them. I feel close and connected to all of them.”

For Ellen, the mission of MOWP resonates on a personal level. The Elm Court Center is close to her home, allowing her to make a tangible difference in the community where she lives. And given that she and Barb are in their mid-60s, there is an innate understanding and empathy for the age group they serve. Volunteering at the Elm Court Center has enriched Ellen’s life in myriad ways. Every delivery fills her with a sense of satisfaction and purpose. It has not only strengthened her bond with her friends but has also integrated her into a larger community of compassionate individuals working toward a common goal.

Ellen’s experiences at Elm Court Center underscore the profound impact of Meals on Wheels People on the lives of older adults. Through consistent service, dedication, and human connection, volunteers like Ellen are not just delivering meals — they are delivering hope, companionship, and a reminder that someone cares. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of community engagement, emphasizing the significance of personal contact in creating positive change in the world.