In September 1992, Peterborough This Week ran a feature on Meals on Wheels that captured a moment of friendship between client Muriel Wright and volunteers Norah and Gordon Boland. The photograph showed more than a meal being delivered — it reflected the spirit of connection that has always been at the heart of the program.
At the time, Meals on Wheels had been serving Peterborough for 28 years. More than 500 volunteers supported 12 routes across the city, delivering hot meals prepared in local community kitchens for $4.25 each. But for many clients, the service was about far more than food.
Muriel, then 85, had lived with arthritis for more than a decade and relied on volunteers for her meals. “The best part of the program is not the food,” she said. “Norah and I have become good friends. Through this, I’ve made friends.”
The Bolands, both retired, volunteered together once a week, serving six clients along their route. Gordon reflected, “We knew we could be a big help in this particular area. And we get a lot of satisfaction from it.” Norah agreed: “You definitely become attached. She’s a lovely person.”
Three decades later, their words ring just as true. Meals on Wheels continues to offer independence, security, and companionship — one meal, and one visit, at a time.
