On behalf of the Hoodland Senior Center, I want to thank the community for the steadfast support we continue to receive as we strive to meet the needs of our seniors and those with special needs. The services we provide are varied, and I encourage everyone to learn about our programs by visiting our new webpage or by calling the senior center (503 622-3331) and requesting to be put on the mailing list for our informative newsletter.
The senior center receives some public funding, but we must engage in fundraising to meet the needs of our clientele. One of our core services is the meals on wheels program. We are grateful to our current vendors who provide meals at or below cost, but as we are all aware, inflation is pushing the cost of food higher while at the same time the number of meal recipients has grown. When I started delivering meals on wheels in our mountain community 12 years ago it was common to have as few as eight people on the route. Today we deliver meals to 30 individuals, and that number could potentially go much higher as people suffer financial or physical difficulties. We do not, and will not, cap the number of people we serve. If people need help, we will be there, but we need your continued support.
We have received an amazing response to our ongoing returnable can and bottle drive, and our rummage sale was a success thanks to those of you who contributed sellable goods and to those who purchased items. Others contribute to our operation in a myriad of ways, and we thank each and every one of you. Some of you will be receiving our annual appeal letter in the mail in the coming weeks. This letter is the only direct request for funds anyone will receive in a given year from the Hoodland Senior Center. We are fully aware that finances for many are tight right now, and whether or not you can contribute, we appreciate each of you and view you as our partners in helping others.
We also need volunteers, particularly delivery drivers for our meals on wheels program. Our goal is to secure enough drivers to allow us to split the route, thereby ensuring that the food reaches everyone while it is still fresh and appetizing. This is not your ordinary volunteer opportunity. Volunteers must pass a background check and have a reliable, insured vehicle. For some deliveries you will need to maneuver gravel roads with significant changes in elevation, and you will deliver in all kinds of weather. However, you will be delivering food to the homes of some of the kindest, most resilient people you will ever meet.
Thank you again for your support. The challenges at times may seem daunting, but together we can do this.
Robert E. Boertien, Chair Hoodland Senior Center Board of Directors