Twenty-four years ago, VISTE (Volunteers in Service to the Elderly) leadership saw a need within its client base and reached out to volunteers to help meet that need. Thanks to the kindness of those volunteers, 100 clients received a Thanksgiving meal that year. This year, VISTE anticipates delivering 1,800 turkey dinners to its elderly clients on the day before Thanksgiving – Wednesday, November 25th.
“The Thanksgiving Meal delivery brings together volunteers and clients in a special way. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season,” said Julie McDonald, Volunteer and Events Manager.
VISTE’s mission is to enable the frail elderly to remain safely and independently in their own homes.
On the day before Thanksgiving (Wed, 11/25), volunteers will be needed to deliver meals and plants to clients but there are some changes this year. Volunteers MUST pre-register to deliver meals. Meals may be picked up at The RP Funding Center, Entrance 2, which is located at 701 W. Lime St. in Lakeland. Pick-up begins at 2 p.m. There will be a drive-through car line. NO ONE WILL GET OUT OF THEIR CARS!
Those interested in following the event on social media are encouraged to go to VISTE’s Facebook and Instagram pages for additional information at www.facebook.com/vistelakeland and https://www.instagram.com/vistelakeland/.
“Volunteers have told us that they love spending time together with family and friends as they deliver meals to elderly clients,” McDonald said. “This event takes over 1000 volunteers throughout the community, it is truly an amazing experience.”
Anyone interested in volunteering to deliver Thanksgiving meals should pre-register at https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?ap=115237630.
Anyone with questions may contact VISTE at 863.284.0828 or email julie@viste.org.