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Most of us have heard of the Meals on Wheels program. It's run by the Salvation Army. For some older Alaskans it is a lifeline to staying independent.
Patty Willard looks forward to a knock on her trailer door every day. Richard delivers Willard 's meals, through the program. She says his visits mean more to her than just dropping off the food.
"So he takes time with me and talks with me. It's not just run in, run out. And I really like that, because I don't get to see many people," said Willard.
Willard has lived in the same trailer for more than 30 years. In fact, she has raised four children there. For her, it is definitely home. But a recent wound combined with long-term health problems made her realize she might not be able to stay.
"It just got to the point where I couldn't take it anymore. And I cried and cried. And you know, how you do, but it doesn't help. But it makes you feel better. But it was at that point before I went to the hospital, that if I didn't get some help, I wouldn't be able to make it," said Willard.
Enter the Salvation Army: one of several programs that can help people like Willard stay independent.
"We're probably for older adults. We're at the beginning of the spectrum of long-term care. We reach people before they need a lot of additional services, before they become eligible for waiver services. So we're right at the beginning," said Fran Engan of the Salvation Army Older Alaskans Program.
That can mean meals delivered daily, light housekeeping services—even some assistance with transportation. The Salvation Army doesn't charge for any of it, relying instead on grants and donations.
Willard says for her it has been a lifeline, allowing her to stay in the home she loves as long as possible.
Not only does the
The best thing to do is to give their Older Alaskans program a call at 907- 349-0613.
To contact Lauren, call 907-273-3186.
