Skip to content

Meals program needs drivers

Some popular Society of Organized Services’ programs are looking for volunteer drivers.

Some popular Society of Organized Services’ programs are looking for volunteer drivers.

Among the many services the non-profit organization runs, the SOS offers a Meals on Wheels program which delivers directly to people that need them, and a Medical Appointment Transportation Service in which volunteers deliver people directly to local appointments.

Andy Telfer, SOS co-ordinator of volunteer resources, explained they have a large dedicated group of volunteer drivers, around 30 per program, but the programs are growing faster than their capacity and they’re desperate for new drivers.

“It’s a great way to meet nice people,” he said of why people volunteer. “People get a real feeling of fulfillment, some just want to keep busy and others really want to support others in their community.”

He added that volunteering with them is a great way for newcomers to get oriented in the area and meet people.

For the hot meal program drivers deliver meals midday on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to around 50 people per month, totaling 8,300 meals last year.

The medical appointment program delivered people to 540 appointments last year and Telfer said they are both growing at around 25 per cent a year.

He said they work closely with volunteers who can commit to as little or as much time as they like.

For more information or to volunteer check their, www.sosd69.com, call 250-248-2093, e-mail sos@sosd69.com, or stop at the office at 245 West Hirst Avenue in Parksville.