KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A program that ensures homebound seniors who may not have anyone supporting them can still eat regularly is working to also make sure they have gifts to open over the holidays.
Mobile Meals is a program operated through the Community Action Committee's Office on Aging. Organizers are hoping to collect gift bags for around 700 seniors who rely on Mobile Meals' services. The gifts will be delivered along with their Christmas meals.
Mobile Meals will collect donations between Nov. 27 and Dec. 11 at the LT Ross Building, located at 2247 Western Ave. on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. People can also donate gift bags at the Grayson Subaru located at 8729 Kingston Pike on weekdays, from 9 a.m. through 8 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. through 6 p.m.
Mobile Meals encourages people to pick up to a total of three gifts for each bag from a list of different categories. The categories are listed below.
- Utility: Magnifying glass, large pens, stationary, notepads, large print puzzles and books, flashlights, batteries, night light, pill boxes, coloring books and supplies
- Personal Care: Lip balms, bars of soap, small-size toiletries (less than 8oz), combs/brushes, toothbrushes and toothpaste, nail clippers/files, tissues
- Home and Kitchen: Hand towels, washcloths, dishtowels, dish liquid, sponges, plug-in air fresheners, fridge magnets, jar openers, soft-grip can openers
- Comfort: Throws (lap robes), socks (non-skid), scarves, gloves, hats, small umbrellas, face masks
Donors should mark bags as being for males, females, or either. Mobile Meals also said they should not include food items, candles, glass or clothing. They can include either new items or handmade items.
Anyone interested in helping out with the Mobile Meals program can also apply to volunteer online.