Diablo Region of Meals on Wheels to host intergenerational march to raise awareness of the plight of homebound seniors

A representative for County Supervisor Diane Burgis will be present at the march. Burgis, a former MOW volunteer, has seen the difference this organization can make in the lives of its clients. 

“Working with partners like Meals on Wheels Diablo Region allows me to connect with older residents and fully understand how critical this support system is,” Burgis said. “I have personally seen clients who benefit from healthy meals, regular human contact and knowing someone cares.” 

The march will take place in a loop at City Park. Afterward, participants are encouraged to enjoy a picnic lunch while local officials speak on the importance of caring for seniors and the impact the community’s participation makes. The march is an opportunity for people of all generations to join together and raise their voices on behalf of those who can’t. 

Carolyn Barnes is a volunteer with MOW. After retirement left her with spare time on her hands, she began looking around for a volunteer opportunity.  

“I saw an ad that they were looking for drivers, so I called,” Barnes said. “I pick up the meals at the senior center and I take them out.”

After joining the organization, she began looking forward to her delivery days. 

“I enjoy the seniors,” she said. “They are so special. I’ve never had one of them not say ‘thank you’ to me. And some of them, we are the only people they see all day. Some have support from family, but not all. So, we also do a welfare check if it seems like anything is off.” 

Susan C. is one of the many Brentwood seniors who benefits from the services offered by MOW. After suffering congestive heart failure, she was homebound and unable to stand long enough to cook her own meals. 

“They deliver lunch to me five days a week,” Susan said. “They have helped me stay in my own home, because cooking is difficult for me. They’ve helped me so much.”

Meyer explained that one purpose of the community march is to recognize the issues of seniors living independently, allowing them to age with dignity in their own homes. 

“People can make a difference by raising their voices on behalf of people who may not be able to do that on their own,” she said. 

Meyer and the rest of the MOW team hope to see all ages, from children to seniors, present at the march. She encourages participants to make signs to carry during the march and to bring a lunch, as meals will not be provided.