Jim Fair
Greer Police Chief Dan Reynolds got a laugh when he was told he would be the one delivering meals for Greer Community Relief Wednesday. Mike Saunders took Reynolds on the route and Hannah Rainwater, of GCM, helped organize the day's deliveries.
Jim Fair
City Councilman Lee Dumas, left, and Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce President Mark Owens were flexing their muscles when told they would be walking their deliveries to residents near GCM.
Jim Fair
Mayor Rick Danner easily earned "best dressed" for his deliveries.
Chamber of Commerce President Mark Owens dressed casual which is why Mayor Rick Danner said he decided to wear a bow tie and suit to earn “best dressed”.
They were among community leaders partnering with Meals on Wheels volunteers to help deliver meals to seniors.
The occasion was part of the Meals on Wheels America March campaign promoted by Greer Community Ministries this week. Volunteers from other professions will be preparing and packaging meals in the kitchen on Thursday.
Reynolds said it also provided him an opportunity to visit the seniors. “It’s hard to think of all the people who are shut-ins and they don’t want to let people know they have a need,” Reynolds said.
The Greer Police Department has distributed blankets to citizens in need. Children are often given stuffed animals to calm them during law enforcement or emergency calls and Reynolds said his officers often make note of other citizen’s needs.
“We interact with the community and try to rely on homeowners associations and community leaders in other neighborhoods,” Reynolds said. “We have a program – park, walk, talk – where we get out of our cars and interact with the neighborhoods.”
“We are excited to have these community leaders join us to highlight our Meals on Wheels program,” Cindy Simpler, GCM Executive Director, said. “Mayor Danner is a regular volunteer driver and we hope that these other leaders are inspired to volunteer as well once they see firsthand the needs of the elderly and home bound right here in Greer.”
City Council presented Meals on Wheels a proclamation at its last City Council meeting to help bring awareness to the programs and highlight the needs of the 350 seniors served weekly.
GCM prepares the meals on site, deliver and fund through community donations.
• Want to help? Call Meals on Wheels at 864-8779-2254 or Greer Community Ministries at 864-877-1937.