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A man with a disability delivers meals on wheels to senior.

More Than a Meal

How Easterseals participants are building community through Meals on Wheels.

Easterseals Participants
Two people with disabilities stand in front of door holding bags of food

“It’s really good to do things like that...to give back to people who need care and loving and cheer,” says Ellice, smiling as she describes her volunteer work with Meals on Wheels. 

Every week, Ellice and her friends from our New Castle County day programs for adults with intellectual disabilities bring more than just food to seniors in their community: they deliver companionship and connection.  

Since Easterseals relaunched its partnership with Meals on Wheels in 2024, our participants have spread cheer across New Castle County with nearly 700 deliveries. But the numbers only tell part of the story. 

For Ellice, one delivery led to something unexpected: a new friend. When she met David, a meal recipient with an intellectual disability, they bonded instantly. Elyse made him a handwritten card asking, “How are you? What’s your favorite color? What do you like to do?” The next week, David surprised her with a note of his own, and the pattern continued; what began as a simple meal delivery has blossomed into a heartfelt pen pal friendship. Now, Ellice lights up when it’s time for her route, and David waits eagerly by the door for her visit.  

A group of a people in a kitchen holding a sign that says Meals on Wheels

“We’re providing nutrition, yes, but also that human connection,” shares Martinique Dorsey, an Easterseals staff member who accompanies Ellice on deliveries.  

Tommy, another day program participant, puts it simply: “I help somebody who needs help.”  

“Meals on Wheels not only benefits recipients but also empowers individuals with special needs to thrive,” adds Dana LeNoir, volunteer coordinator at New Castle’s Meals on Wheels site. “It fosters independence, confidence, and creates a sense of purpose. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding.”  

These meaningful connections are possible because of supporters like you. When you donate to Easterseals’ Intellectual Disability Services, you help participants like Ellice form lasting friendships, build their confidence, and give back in ways that matter.  

Will you help us continue this vital work with a gift today? Donate to Intellectual Disability Services here:

Donate Today!
A man with a disability delivers food to a woman at her door.

Donate to Intellectual Disabilities Services

Ellice and her friends from Easterseals bring more than meals. They deliver friendship, purpose, and joy to their neighbors through Meals on Wheels. Your gift today helps adults with disabilities give back and build connections that change lives. Donate here.

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