Meals on Wheels looking out for seniors on hot days

Meals on Wheels volunteers in Dayton bring meals and a little comfort for senior citizens.

During excessive heat, the volunteers make sure seniors like Sally Jackson are staying cool.

“I appreciate it every day. Thank God she brings me my meals,” Jackson said Monday during an interview with WHIO’s John Bedell. ” I appreciate all the work they are doing for me.”

On hot days, Jackson said she fans herself with newspapers and drinks ice water to stay cool.

Cristal Fillers, director of nutrition at the Senior Resource Connection, the program serves 2,500 to 2,800 meals a day in 11 communities.

On hot days, the drivers delivering the meals and carry extra water to help ensure seniors are comfortable during hot periods.

“They just monitor the clients closely,” Fillers said.

The agency advises seniors on how to stay cool and hydrated during the summer. Delivery drivers also check air conditioning systems and make calls if there are any problems.

“”We will contact the family to let them know. We want everyone to be safe,” Fillers said.

Fillers said the delivery drivers are willing to take on the extra work.

“They all care a lot about our clients,” she said. “They have a very close relationship.”