Hungry seniors need servers

NORWAY — A group of hungry senior citizens are looking for a few volunteers to help them with a weekly meal.

SeniorsPlus is a not-for-profit organization that helps to deliver thousands of hot, high-quality meals to seniors in the region.

Since last May, more than a dozen seniors have gathered in Norway's Congregational Church every Tuesday at noon.

"It's for nutrition, but it's also a social gathering," said Heather Brown, the coordinator of volunteer services with the program. "The people there like to connect with each other."

The program has been a success for the people who participate, but the onset of winter has threatened the program's ability to provide the meals.

"There are a few core volunteers. Some are snowbirds, so they're going away, which is why I need to recruit," said Brown.

SeniorsPlus, which also helps deliver Meals on Wheels to other area seniors, relies heavily on volunteers. They deliver 2,100 meals every week, using 17 paid staff and over 300 volunteers.

In Norway, Brown says she is hoping for four or five volunteers who could work from about 10:00 a.m. to about 1:00 p.m.

Volunteers set up the meals, ensure that the meals are at the proper temperature, serve the seniors, clean up, and keep track of paperwork.

"We have a dietitian who looks over our menu," said Brown. "They're healthy, low salt, low fat. They're really good. "

She notes that experienced chefs oversee the production of the food.

Seniors are asked to make a donation to help support the program, while non-seniors may enjoy the meal at a cost of $6.

Those who are interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Brown at hbrown@seniorsplus.org or 795-4010.