While on the surface the Meaningful Meals program appears to focuses on the nutritional needs of Coquitlam seniors, it's main goal is to combat social isolation, which continues to be a problem after the COVID epidemic, especially for seniors.

Geoff Scott – Local Journalism Initiative

Lesley Joyce, Recreation Facility Supervisor with the Coquitlam City says that through the delivery of nutritious, frozen meals, volunteers in the Meaningful Meals for Seniors program provide the opportunity for friendly conversation and connections to City resources, services and programs.

Currently Coquitlam's Meaningful Meals program delivers approximately 150 frozen meals every week ( maximum of four per person per week ) that are distributed to just over 250 seniors in the City of Coquitlam. The program is run in partnership between the City of Coquitlam's Community Service team and the pavilion kitchens at Dogwood Pavilion and Glenn Pine Pavilion.

Volunteers are needed to assist with making the deliveries and to check in on seniors that are taking part in the Meaningful Meals for Seniors program. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, be willing to submit to a criminal records check, and must have their own vehicle, valid class 5 drivers license, and insurance.

Volunteers can volunteer on a weekly, monthly or on-call basis. Deliveries take place every Tuesday between 10 am to 12 pm. Delivery time will vary, and will depend on the length of conversation/interaction at each household.

The City of Coquitlam is looking to expand this program and is always looking for new volunteers to provide assistance. For further information go to the city's website; coquitlam.ca and run a search for volunteer opportunities.