Mission Makers
United Way’s Meals on Wheels volunteers are making a big impact in the Birmingham area each day. The Meals on Wheels community is “dedicated to improving the lives of homebound seniors and disabled individuals throughout Jefferson County by delivering meals and hope to those who are unable to fulfill their own nutritional needs.”
Meet Becky Hunter. Becky Hunter is a Meals on Wheels volunteer of nearly 20 years. After retiring as an elementary school teacher in 2007, she “wanted to find something to do to give back and do some volunteer work,” she explains. Hunter’s church, Oakmont Chapel Presbyterian, is one of several area churches that supplies a group of volunteers for Meals on Wheels. Back in 2007, one of Hunter’s friends at church was giving up her Meals on Wheels route. “It was the perfect opportunity for me to step in and take over for her,” Hunter says.
A Day in the Life of a Volunteer. For Hunter, the day begins by stopping at the Hoover Senior Center to pick up the packaged meals. After placing them in insulated bags, she heads off to begin her delivery route. 
As a Meals on Wheels volunteer, Hunter has developed relationships with the people she serves. Delivering meals to Jerry is one of her favorite stops. “He always has a smile on his face when he comes to the door,” Hunter says while smiling herself. She often takes a few minutes to visit with Jerry and discuss a variety of topics including Alabama football. “We’ve had lots of good conversations.” Jerry has shared with Hunter how much Meals on Wheels has made a difference in his life. “I think it makes a difference in the lives of everyone who gets Meals on Wheels. It gives them the opportunity to have a meal they don’t have to prepare,” Hunter shares. In addition to impacting the lives of those that receive the meals, Hunter says volunteering with Meals on Wheels fills her with a sense of pride in helping others.
Get Involved. Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver 5,000+ meals each week in Jefferson County. By volunteering with Meals on Wheels, you can be a part of something bigger than yourself. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the community and get to know people that you probably didn’t know before,” Hunter says, adding that she has become friends with many people on her route, including Jerry. “I would encourage anyone who has the time to get involved.” Find details and sign up to be a Meals on Wheels volunteer at www.mowjeffco.org. †
Watch the video below to hear more from Becky Hunter about her experience as a Meals on Wheels volunteer.
