In the early days of Meals on Wheels—then a service of the Courtesy Association—a small group of committed volunteers laid the foundation for what would become a vital service in the Peterborough community. But as the program sought to grow, the question loomed: how could they build the volunteer base needed to deliver hot meals every weekday?
The answer, in large part, came from local churches.
Congregations across the city and county rallied behind the emerging service, encouraging members to volunteer their time and forming delivery teams that took responsibility for one or more days each month. These weren’t one-off gestures; churches became dependable partners, offering consistent, organized support that allowed the program to expand.
A 1992 photograph from our archives shows longtime volunteer Maureen Exley holding one of several plaques Meals on Wheels presented to churches in appreciation of their service. The image is a reminder that many of our early partnerships were forged in sanctuaries, fellowship halls, and church bulletin boards. From choir members to retired clergy, parishioners embraced the opportunity to serve neighbours in need.
The faith community’s involvement helped Meals on Wheels move from a social start-up to a fully functioning service. Their participation wasn’t just about numbers—it was about mobilizing people with a shared purpose and a heart for helping others.
Those plaques may now be shrouded under dust, lost, or forgotten, but the mission and partnership they represent lives on in every meal served.
