Transformative Work in Every Community
photos courtesy OWBC
Each day of the week, Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver nutritious meals and much-appreciated conversation to more than 1,000 homebound seniors in Williamson and Burnet counties. Volunteer Barbara Huffman says, “Besides the fact that we may be the only person some clients will see that day, for some, I suspect, it may also be the only meal they get each day. You see the need for companionship, but sometimes it’s just the meal itself that is the most important.”
Providing home-delivered meals allows disabled, homebound seniors to remain in their homes and age in place – growing older while living independently in an existing home or community for as long as possible. The program “serves as a supportive community feature and service that helps keep our senior population healthy and independent using fewer community resources. It also helps reduce the loneliness and depression that often accompanies growing older,” Digital & Marketing Coordinator Kylea Marlow says. “If these services are not provided, homebound seniors who are not able to be active may see their health deteriorate, and subsequently be forced to give up their homes and move to a more institutionalized environment.”
Meals on Wheels is one of several programs offered by community services nonprofit Opportunities for Williamson & Burnet Counties (OWBC), and thanks to its annual Sip & Shop fundraiser, it will keep rolling and bringing meals and smiles to 1,300 clients across the two-county area.
SIP, SHOP, & SUPPORT
Aiming to raise $50,000 for Meals on Wheels of Williamson & Burnet Counties, the sixth annual Sip & Shop is a fashion-forward fundraiser that will feature a luncheon, wine and beer tastings, an interactive fashion show showcasing local boutiques, and a pop-up boutique shopping experience. Local boutiques will participate in the fashion show and dress senior models from Sun City. Pop-up boutiques will be on site to sell women’s fashion apparel and accessories, jewelry, salon services, and more. Attendees can enjoy food and drinks, participate in a dessert auction, have the chance to win amazing raffle prizes, and much more – all while supporting a good cause, Kylea says.
Sip & Shop • Lakeside Pavilion, Marble Falls • Saturday, May 11 • 11am to 3pm Saturday
RSVP by emailing [email protected]
A LITTLE HISTORY
Established in 1965, OWBC is a non-profit organization that strives to make the Williamson and Burnet communities stronger by empowering children, families, and seniors through programs that provide education, nutrition, housing, and community support.
Meals on Wheels delivers hot meals to homebound seniors five days a week, 52 weeks a year. The agency also operates at OWBC community centers and serves congregate meals that allow seniors to engage in social and educational activities, including Madella Hilliard Senior Center, 803 W. 8th St. in Georgetown.
Head Start prepares children from birth to 5 years to become successful students by providing child development and health, nutrition, mental health, and social services.
Community Services provide case management and support to help transition low-income community members out of poverty through financial assistance, education, and coaching.
LEND A HAND
Whether you’re interested in delivering meals to homebound seniors or helping set children up for success, OWBC has a variety of volunteer opportunities. Visit owbc-tx.org/volunteer to fill out a volunteer application and drop it off at the main office, 604 High Tech Drive, Georgetown, or email it to c[email protected]. owbc-tx.org