Most of our meal recipients live alone, many rarely or never leave their homes. Eight percent of them say they don't even have anyone to talk to regularly. For our isolated neighbors who remember a time when sending and receiving handwritten letters was commonplace, getting a personalized note or card can brighten their day.
Citymeals works with student, community and corporate groups across the city to craft handmade cards for isolated older New Yorkers. They honor special occassions, including birthdays and holidays, and are delivered along with a nourishing meal.
THE BEAUTIFUL CARDS FROM THE CHILDREN ADORN MY WALLS. THIS FOOD NOURISHED MY BODY, BUT THE THOUGHTS AND LOVE THAT COME MY WAY TOUCHED MY SOUL.
-Anna, 80, Citymeals recipient
Last year, volunteers created nearly 29,000 cards for their older neighbors.
Remind your homebound older neighbors they haven't been forgotten. Showing you care can be as simple as making a thoughtful card or writing a friendly letter.
Instructions:
- Download and print the Citymeals card template.
- Decorate the cards as you like! You can add stickers and phrases like: "Thinking of you," "Have a great day," or seasonally appropriate greetings like "Happy Holidays" or "Happy Valentine's Day."
- Avoid glitter and religious language or symbols.
- Don't include any personal information other than your first name.
- Mail completed cards to:
Citymeals on Wheels (Attn: Handmade Card Program)
355 Lexington Avenue New York, NY 10017
- Include a separate piece of paper your full name or the name of your group/company, as well as your email or mailing address.
- On the outside of the envelope, note the total number of cards.
For additional information, please reach out to Sheila@citymeals.org
