Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana taking aggressive steps to protect clients and volunteers during COVID-19 pandemic

(Indianapolis, Ind.) Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana announced today that it is taking aggressive steps to protect clients and volunteers during the current COVID-19 outbreak. 

“Many of our clients are among those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19, and it’s critical they receive meals to remain healthy,” said Barb Morris, CEO. “At the same time, our dedicated volunteers are on the front lines with our clients. It’s imperative we are as vigilant as possible in protecting everyone involved.”

Currently, Meals on Wheels is continuing to serve meals to both their clients in the greater Indianapolis area and those they serve through their statewide program. They are in regular contact with local and state health officials regarding best practices for meal delivery. For the next three weeks (March 16 – April 6th), or as long as deemed necessary, Meals on Wheels will: 

  • Encourage clients to receive a weekly supply of frozen, medically-tailored meals via UPS, rather than their regular delivery driver. Meals on Wheels already has this infrastructure in place through our statewide meal program. 
  • Volunteers will hang meals on the doorknob in a new, single-use plastic bag. They will ring the doorbell and knock to alert the client that the meal has been delivered and will immediately leave the premise to avoid unnecessary exposure. 
  • All clients will receive a box of non-perishable, shelf-stable food to ensure they can maintain their required caloric intake in the rare case of a total delivery disruption.
  • Delivery drivers and volunteers will sanitize their hands and wear a new pair of protective gloves when making each delivery. 
  • Volunteers who may experience symptoms of COVID-19 or the flu should immediately cease deliveries and alert Meals on Wheels. 

Meals on Wheels is currently holding daily meetings with its leadership team and state and local officials to monitor new developments and adapt operations accordingly. 

“We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our neighbors during this challenging time,” Morris continued. “With the support of our staff, volunteers, friends and clients, we will weather this storm together and continue to be there for the people we serve.”