Like so many of those who work to help others, Lois Bowman of Washington Township is involved with more than one community group.
In addition to working as a Delmont Public Library staff member, Bowman donates her time to the Delmont Meals on Wheels program.
“I didn’t know if we’d have enough supplies for the winter weather survival kits we give everyone,” Bowman said.
The kits are distributed to the program’s roughly 55 clients in the greater Delmont area. They are filled with nonperishable food items so that if and when severe weather arrives and the Meals on Wheels program is unable to deliver, clients can still make themselves an easy meal.
Children’s librarian Sue Burd, who recently started a small pen pal program for young teens and Meals on Wheels’ senior recipients, suggested soliciting donations based on laps walked around Newhouse Park.
Library volunteer Bill Stenger — who also drives for Meals on Wheels — immediately volunteered to walk and help raise money.
The result was a Nov. 5 walk-athon that raised more than $1,200 and $550 in donated pantry items for the winter weather survival kits.
Meals on Wheels volunteer Kathy Varnise of Delmont said program officials appreciate the library’s efforts.
“We have a box at the library as well, to collect food and make up the winter weather packages,” she said. “We’re always happy to have donations.”
For more on Delmont Meals on Wheels or to volunteer, call kitchen coordinator Carol Hartman at 724-468-4781. To inquire about receiving meals, call intake coordinator Lori Harr at 724-468-6676.
Delmont Meals on Wheels prepares food for delivery in the mornings on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Salem Lutheran Church on East Pittsburgh Street.
Patrick Varine is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Patrick by email at pvarine@triblive.com or via Twitter .
