The Herald-Times
By Brittany Johnson
Special to The Herald-Times
2/2/2004
Whether it be delivering hot nutritious meals or receiving them – Meals on Wheels, Inc. caters to both.
With the generous support of donors and the dedicated help of their volunteers, Meals on Wheels provides wholesome meals to homebound
individuals unable to cook for themselves due to age or illness. Providing home-delivered meals ensures that clients receive a proper diet and friendly visitor.
Eva Skirvin, 93 years old, has been volunteering with Meals on Wheels ever since they purchased their first hot box, back in 1973. Three years ago, she lost her eyesight and could no longer drive for Meals on Wheels. It was then that she decided to receive their delivered meals.
“I don’t always know what I’m eating, but I love the variety of foods, especially the dessert,” said Skirvin. “Whether it’s stir fry chicken and egg roles, macaroni and cheese or peach cobbler – it’s practically enough for two people!”
A resident of Bloomington since age 12, Eva has always given back to the community. In addition to volunteering for Meals on Wheels for the past 30 years, she has also dedicated her time to Altrusa and The Salvation Army.
“I have always loved being an active member in this community,” said Skirvin. “It just feels right.”
With the help of family and friends today, Eva still manages to stay connected to the outside world. She obtains the daily news from a special camera that projects her newspaper onto the television and she also has many friends and visitors that take her out around town. Eva’s son and daughter-in-law that live nearby manage her grocery shopping and finances as well.
But at 93 and without her eyesight, Eva struggles to cook and eat healthy. Fortunately, a friendly volunteer from Meals on Wheels delivers Eva hot nutritious meals five days a week that keep her more than satisfied.
“It sure saves a lot of washing and drying dishes,” said Skirvin. “I would recommend it to anyone.”