Meals On Wheels of Sarasota is inviting the community to bring a little extra comfort and holiday cheer to neighbors in need through its annual Share the Love Holiday Gift Drive. The organization that delivers hot meals and warm smiles daily to more than 1,000 homebound seniors, veterans, children and families every day is accepting donated gifts through Saturday, November 28. In addition to facing hunger, many clients are alone and isolated, and the gift bags they receive brighten their holidays and let them know they are not forgotten.
“The holidays can be difficult for those who are unable to spend them with friends or loved ones – especially now, during the pandemic. Even a small gift makes a world of difference for the homebound,” says Marjorie Broughton, the executive director of Meals On Wheels Sarasota. “This is a particularly gratifying time of year because we get to see the joy they feel when they are remembered during the holidays.”
New gifts may be dropped off at Meals On Wheels of Sarasota (421 N. Lime Ave.), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon. Gifts may also be dropped off at Sunset Subaru (7611 South Tamiami Trail) and TD Bank (3450 Clark Road).
Meals On Wheels clients, who range in age from 3 to 105, receive meals because they are physically or mentally impaired and unable to prepare meals or go to a food pantry or grocery store. Hundreds of volunteers help prepare, pack and deliver heart-healthy meals, six days a week, throughout the year. In August, a wish list was distributed and then gathered to help generous donors choose gifts that mean the most to clients.
2020 HOLIDAY WISH LIST
- Adult coloring books/coloring pencils
- Combs and brushes
- Deodorant
- First aid kits
- Large print playing cards
- Liquid and bar soap for bathing
- Magnifying lenses
- Nail files and nail clippers
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Small calendars
- Small flashlights with batteries
- Socks
- Tissues – boxes or packs
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Writing pads, notecards, postcards and stamps
Toys appropriate for children between 3 and 16 years of age will also be welcomed.
To learn more about the gift drive, volunteering, or donating through a charitable fund, contact Meals On Wheels of Sarasota: info@mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org or 941-366-6693.
About Meals On Wheels of Sarasota
Meals On Wheels of Sarasota provides nutritious meals and friendship to individuals who are unable to plan, shop, or prepare meals for themselves. A team of volunteers deliver more than 1,000 meals daily to Sarasota residents who are homebound, including physically or mentally challenged children, adults, seniors and veterans on a temporary or ongoing basis. Heart healthy meals are prepared and delivered to individuals and families who live in Sarasota County between University Parkway and Albee Farm Road, and from Longboat, Lido and Siesta keys to east of the Sarasota County Line. To donate or learn more, visit our volunteer page in our menu bar.
