NOBLESVILLE, Ind. – During snowy conditions like this, it can be a big challenge for drivers out on the roads. There is one organization that hasn’t let the cold or snow stop them from continuing to serve those in need.
“There’s a lot of people who are lonely and I have got nothing but time being retired,” said Mark Lofton, one of the delivery drivers.
Lofton loaded up his car Friday morning for another day of deliveries with Meals on Wheels Hamilton County.
“I started about a year ago,” Lofton said. “It’s been a really rewarding experience for me.
But this week, the routes have been a bit challenging for delivery drivers like Lofton.
“I was supposed to drive on Monday but they canceled delivery on Monday,” he said.
“I hate having to make that decision [to cancel deliveries] because what that means is people are not getting their hot meals,” said Beth Gehlhausen, the executive director with Meals on Wheels Hamilton County.
Cancellations are rare for Meals on Wheels Hamilton County, usually only happening once a year. But when they do happen, it is for the best.
“The other thing I have to consider is the safety of these folks who are donating their time, gas, and I can’t have them out on roads that are unsafe,” Gehlhausen said.
Luckily Friday’s snow did not impact this round of deliveries as drivers started their routes early in the day but anyone who did not feel safe driving did not have to come in.
“First and foremost, we always tell our folks, if you are not comfortable driving, please don’t! We will figure it out… I can’t stress enough if they are not comfortable, we don’t want them out on the roads. Safety is always number one,” Gehlhausen said.
There are still plenty of drivers to take up the extra load whenever that happens.
“It’s just a matter of making sure you are careful on driveways,” Lofton said. “A lot of slickness is out there. We don’t want one of our drivers to get hurt.”
The goal heading in 2025 is to beat last year’s delivery count of nearly 64,000 meals served to those in need and Lofton will be out helping every step of the way.
“If I can spend a few more minutes and make them have a better day it’s a great feeling for me,” he said.
To learn more about Meals on Wheels Hamilton County, click here. To learn more about volunteering opportunities, click here.
