Every day, the Valley Meals on Wheels drivers embark on a crucial mission. They pick up the hot food and sack lunches at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and set off on their seven routes that operate 365 days a year. These dedicated volunteers are committed to ensuring that every homebound, disabled, or elderly client gets their nourishing meal on time.

"Bringing Hope and Nourishment to Homebound Lives"

The Loading Dock and Departure

Around 10:30 a.m., the drivers gather at the loading dock to collect the food. Once they have everything they need, they quickly depart, knowing that their timely deliveries are essential. Each route has its own set of clients, and they make sure to reach everyone on their lists without delay.

For example, on a typical day, the drivers follow specific routes that cover different areas. Five routes wind through Lewiston and the Orchards, while another two cover downtown Clarkston and the Heights. This ensures that no one is left without a meal.

The sense of urgency is palpable as they drive from one house to another, with a Meals on Wheels flag whipping in the wind. It's a race against time to make sure that every client is fed.

The Drivers and Their Clients

Driver Shelly Andrews, of Clarkston, describes her job as "a lot like having a paper route." With her red car zipping from house to house, she delivers meals to her clients. If a recipient isn't home, she places the food in a cooler on the porch.

Over the years, Andrews has gotten to know many of her clients. She remembers when the heat was off last year and they knocked on every door to check on their folks. And when a fire recently broke out on 13th Street, she was quick to act, worried about her two clients who are in wheelchairs and live next door.

James Boyle, 82, and his 77-year-old wife, Peggy, appreciate the care and concern from Andrews. They rely on the regular deliveries to their mobile home and consider Valley Meals on Wheels more than just food.

The History and Growth of the Program

Dennis Ohrtman, of Lewiston, was one of the pioneers of Valley Meals on Wheels when it first began a half-century ago at Trinity Lutheran Church. It started with a small group making meals for about six people.

As they saw the growing need, the program expanded to Clarkston and a commercial kitchen was added to meet the demand. A coordinator was hired, and now the nonprofit organization partners with St. Joe's kitchen for the daily service.

Coordinator Margo Ericson has been at the helm for seven years. About 140 clients receive meals each day, with the cost being $4 for hot food or $5 for both warm food and a sack lunch. Close to 200 volunteers are on the list of rotating drivers, and more are always needed.

The Rewards of the Job

Retirees like Scott Winther, 66, of Clarkston, find joy in giving back through this program. He says, "I like giving back, and this is really rewarding."

Sam Charles, a 77-year-old Lewiston Orchards retiree, adds that interacting with the clients is the best part. He has met many fascinating people on his route and enjoys hearing their life stories.

The routine has become a blessing for these volunteers, and they look forward to each day of delivering meals and making a difference in the lives of others.