Dot Mackie has been coordinating the Drumheller Meals on Wheels program since its inception 31 years ago. In that time, the service and its dedicated volunteers have helped bring hot meals to Drumheller seniors.
“They (seniors) appreciate it so much. When I see them, they tell me they don’t know what they’d do without it,” said Mackie.
The meals are cooked by staff and the Drumheller Health Centre. Afterwards, a volunteer picks up the hot meals, kept warm in an insulated package, and hand delivers them right to the seniors front door. Each meal contains soup, dessert, meat, and vegetables.
“My drivers are marvellous. They do this for nothing and some have been with me for a long time. I’m so happy with them. They look after the seniors really well,” said Mackie.
The program started 31 years ago when Dot heard about a similar program in Calgary.
“A friend of mine in Calgary was getting Meals on Wheels, so I thought ‘why don’t we have one here. Then I was in my church group and we started talking and decided to start it here. We went to Calgary and visited the places that served Meals on Wheels. Found out what they did, came back, and talked to the hospital. They said they’d be willing as long as we found containers. The businesses around Drumheller, bless their hearts, donated money to buy containers,” said Mackie.
Mackie hopes more seniors will take advantage of the service. Anyone wishing to learn more or sign up can contact Mackie at 403-823-2945.
