Dozens of volunteers line a long rectangular table, each picking up cans of soup, vegetables, and fruits. Each of these cans are then carefully positioned in a large brown cardboard box so that it may go out to someone in need of a Thanksgiving meal. For hours, these generous volunteers give their time in order to help those in need.
This was the scene at the Visiting Nurses Association on Mockingbird Road here in Dallas. From 7:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., Jesuit students, parents, and alumni took precious time out of their Thanksgiving day in order to help give back to the community. The group packs and loads all the meals for the charity, Meals on Wheels, to then disseminate all over Dallas County. Specifically, the group loads all the coolers containing hundreds upon hundreds of meals into delivery cars, and then collects all the returning empty coolers after all the runs had been made all over the city.
This wonderful program has been going on for over 20 years. Mr. Donahue commented that “[They] expect around 60 volunteers every year, but always have more because many parents and alumni return each year to contribute.” Mr. Donahue also went to say that, while he is known for being huge contributor in the project, Mr. Raymond Ochs and his sons, Mr. Raul Ornelas, and Mr. Anthony Mattacchione are all also very important in the project’s setup and attendance each year.
Many students spoke enthusiastically about the event. When asked about his thoughts on this year’s Meals on Wheels Project, Jesus Garcia ’17 responded, “great, it was awesome to be able to help so many people!” He also expressed that the opportunity “inspired him” to help many more people in upcoming events.
Robert Hillsley ’17 has attended the event two times, saying “[he] was one of the first people to sign up this year because [he] wanted to make sure [he] had the chance to help after a great experience last year.” According to Robert, this event is so great because it makes people feel like they have made a difference by caring for others: “Coming home and eating my own dinner tastes better knowing I’ve helped others also enjoy a dinner.”
Jesus Garcia ’17 and Robert Hillsley ’17 also mentioned they were “excited” and “thrilled” to do this project again next year. Both students plan to be regulars for the event.
This year was a great success as always. Remember to sign up next year as it is a great way to give back to the community!
