The Citymeals Blog

Citymeals on Wheels delivers more than a meal to our recipients  — we also bring vital connection to over 22,000 older New Yorkers, many of whom are homebound and isolated. We asked Vivienne O’Neill, Senior Director of Volunteer Programs and Corporate Engagement at Citymeals, about how volunteers can build and foster relationships with their older neighbors through our new Connectivity Programs. 

What challenges are older New Yorkers currently facing?  

The older people we serve have lived through so much. They were teachers, musicians, business owners, nurses, community leaders. Many of them have incredible stories but, sadly, those stories share a common theme: loneliness.  

A lot of our meal recipients don’t have friends, family or strong support systems. And, over time, that kind of isolation can take a heavy toll — mentally, emotionally and physically.  

How do Citymeals’ new Connectivity programs help?  

These programs bridge the gap between homebound older New Yorkers and the outside world. For example, our work with Life Story Club has provided our meal recipients with a way to get together online. These groups meet up virtually once a week to talk about things in their lives, sharing with strangers. And then, at the end, they all meet in person. It's about older people recognizing the connection they share with one another.   

Because we here at Citymeals are not just focusing on delivering meals, but ensuring that our older homebound neighbors are being connected in other ways, like through our Shop & Assist program. Volunteers are helping ease the burden of shopping and other basic tasks by escorting our meal recipients to the pharmacy or doctors’ appointments and carrying home grocery bags — everything!  

Do these programs form lasting connections? 

Yes. I’ve seen volunteers form deep connections with our meal recipients, calling to check in on them outside their scheduled visits — remembering their birthdays, remembering their needs. It’s that everyday kindness that makes this work so powerful. 

Are there older people in your life who inspire you?  

There is a person who, sadly, is no longer here — my grandmother. Growing up and seeing how she cared for her community, even when she didn’t have a lot, shaped the way I live my life. Also, my mother, who will be 83 years old in a few months. She’s still driving. I don’t know where she gets it from, but she’s my hero.  

What would you want prospective volunteers to know about Citymeals?  

Volunteering with Citymeals is more than just delivering food. It’s about delivering kindness, dignity and connection. It doesn’t take much time to make a difference. Just a single hour of your week can be the highlight of somebody else’s. If you’re looking for meaningful ways to give back, Citymeals is an incredible place to start.