SCRANTON, Pa. — Bags are packed, and food is filled to the brim as hundreds of meals are being prepared at Meals on Wheels of NEPA in Scranton. Volunteers like Lynn Amicone are helping out for the very first time.
"It's a wonderful gesture and a way to show these people that someone is caring about them, especially at this time of the year," said Amicone.
To our seniors, a hot meal can often be a lifeline. Something that's not lost on those who have an aging loved one.
"My mom was in this situation before she passed, and my dad is in assisted living. I still cook for him and bring him treats at certain times," said Amicone.
That's the case for many loved ones who often take on the role of caregiver without even knowing it.
"Caregivers are one of the hardest groups to reach because they're doing it because it's what they do. They take care of their friends. They take care of their families. They don't realize they're labeled as a caregiver," said Director Sara McDonald.
Which is why Friday's meals aren't just going to our seniors in the community but to those who take care of them every single day.
"If you have a full-time job, you have children of your own, and you're trying to take care of an aging or disabled family member, it could be very overwhelming, and we want to come together and show some support for those caregivers and say 'we see you. There are resources to help you," explained Lindsey Skripka, Meals on Wheels of NEPA Executive Director.
This small gesture is hoping to bring a big relief.
"I know this is only one meal, but if it gives them a little bit of respite, to being a caregiver to everyone in their home. It's a step in the right direction," said McDonald.
Altogether, 254 meals were packed and delivered to seniors and their caregivers across Lackawanna County.