The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners’ (BOCC) Division of Support Services invited community leaders to help bring attention to the needs of seniors by volunteering to assist with Meals on Wheels deliveries during “Community Champions Week,” March 20 – March 24, 2023, as a part of the national March for Meals campaign.

Community Leaders Ride Along During March for Meals

These high-profile volunteers, which included Chairman Ruthie Davis Schlabach and Commissioner
Diana Finegan, accompanied experienced Meals on Wheels drivers on their regular delivery routes.

“It gives me great comfort to know that someone is checking on our elderly citizens,” said Schlabach.
“Meals on Wheels has touched my family personally,” Chairman Schlabach reflects. “My late mother
wanted to hold on to her independence so, when it became clear that she was not getting the nutrition she needed, Meals on Wheels was a perfect fit. This cause is near and dear to my heart.”

This year’s March for Meals celebration comes at a time when eight out of ten local Meals on Wheels
programs are still delivering meals to more older adults than they were prior to the pandemic, and
operational and food costs are still soaring even while inflation slows.

“The men and women that volunteer their time every month to deliver meals are the true champions,” said Commissioner Finegan. “(Drivers) Linda and Gayle showed me that they provide more than meals. They give kindness, smiles, and share other services and activities for those looking for companionship. I
encourage everyone that has even one day a month to volunteer to try a ride along and see the great benefit of Meals on Wheels.”

County Administrator Steve Howard also took an opportunity to volunteer his time. “I was honored to
participate,” he said. “The volunteers work tirelessly to make this program so successful. They
demonstrate what service to community is in action.”

To learn more about March for Meals, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/take-action/march-for-
meals. To volunteer, please call (352) 527-5975 or email Roberta.Lawrence@citrusbocc.com.