Springdale prepares 'Meals on Wheels' for area seniors
Wednesday, November 23, 2005 -- Craig Anderson
When Millbrook Penitentiary permanently locked its gates in 2001, a small-scale local meal delivery program was also lost.

For Millbrook families who were concerned about the dietary needs of their elderly loved ones being met, the 'Meals on Wheels' program – which was run out of the prison’s kitchen - provided re-assurance.

Shelagh Gaffney, community development co-ordinator of Millbrook Community Care (a non-profit service providing support for area seniors and persons with physical challenges), approached Springdale Country Manor long- term care home to inquire if it was interested in filling that void.

Pauline Chaggares, Springdale’s administrator, was more than willing to participate. She deferred in this case to Ann Weldon, NCM, who runs the home’s kitchen. Ann had no reservations. The ‘Meals on Wheels’ program was only serving a maximum of ten local residents at any given time, so extra workload for kitchen staff was minimal.

Most importantly, says Ann, is that the program is an example of the exponential benefits of partnerships, making a small but significant difference in a township with a residency of 8,400.

“It’s nice to be able to give back to the community. As a result of initiatives like this, we enjoy a good relationship with the community,” Ann says.

“We’re well known.”

Springdale’s kitchen staff cooks the meals three times a week for Millbrook’s elderly. The meals are picked up from the home by 'Meals on Wheels' volunteers and delivered into the largely rural community. Extra-large portions are intentionally served, says Ann, so there are enough leftovers to cover at least two of the day’s meals.

Springdale recently received a pleasing commentary on the food and their participation in the 'Meals on Wheels' service when one of its recipients requested admission to the home.

“Programs like ‘Meals on Wheels’ don’t have to be big to be effective,” says Pauline.

“It’s very important in a small community to be involved this way. And word travels quickly out here.”

The program is currently dormant – the last user of the service is the Springdale resident – but typically serves between five to 10 local community members.