In 2014, Kathleen Suryan and many longtime friends had a goal to brighten the faces of the Alameda Meals on Wheels (AMOW) recipients. After speaking with Rosemary Reilly, the director of Alameda Meals on Wheels at the time, they learned that there were so many seniors who did not have family members or friends to support them during the year and especially during the holidays. Most of these seniors also live below the poverty level.

The first year, they “adopted” four AMOW seniors. What fun and it was so well received! The following year it was 12 seniors. Now in 2022 they are adopting 70 seniors plus their respective grandchildren who live with them.

Their requests are very modest. It is warm robes, clothing, slippers and underwear. These are considered luxury items for these seniors. Occasionally, AMOW gets a request for something special like See’s candy or mixed nuts. AMOW always makes sure that they get gift cards to various grocery stores. Their needs are so great.

The phone calls that I receive after “Santa” delivers his gifts are heartwarming. Many recipients are in tears and say they cannot believe that strangers would be so kind and generous to them.

The adopt-a-senior program is incredibly rewarding and carries on throughout the year, providing grocery gift cards and other treats on Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and Easter.

To learn more about AMOW, or to make a donation, visit www.AlamedaMealsonWheels.org or call 510-865-6131.
Peri Drake is the executive director of AMOW.