Meals on Wheels - Runner

Volunteer opportunity conditions :  

• Location : In-person
• Regions or cities : Etobicoke
• Minimum age :  16 years or older
• Minimum volunteer hours/period : Minimum 6-month commitment is preferred. The delivery shifts are between 1.5 to 3 hours.
• Specific requirements : The Meals on Wheels Runner will be responsible to come to the Canadian Red Cross Branch or depot to pick up meals, submit and/or receive necessary paperwork and to complete training. The majority of the work is performed accompanying a Meals on Wheels delivery driver. 

The Canadian Red Cross (Red Cross) – an inspirational not for profit organization, helps people and communities in Canada and around the world in times of need and supports them in strengthening their resilience. We are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free working environment. 

The Community Health and Wellness Team is looking for volunteers. Volunteers will deliver hot and frozen, nutritious meals to people who are unable to tend to their own nutritional needs but wish to continue living independently in the community. Meals on Wheels Runner Volunteers work in partnership with drivers to deliver meals and additionally provide social interaction and monitor the wellbeing of clients. 

As a volunteer in this role, you will :

Responsibility 1:  Meal Delivery

• Arrive prior to delivery times to receive delivery schedule and meals.
• Ensure all required meals are present, taking into consideration meals with special dietary requirements.
• Following the schedule, accompanying a driver to deliver meals to clients in their homes, ensuring those with dietary requirements receive the correct meal.
• Ensure meals are kept at safe temperatures.
• Return schedules and paperwork to the office post-delivery.

Responsibility 2 : Friendly Visits 

• Provide friendly visits and wellness checks with clients.
• Report any issues or concerns with clients’ health status or other needs to the coordinator.
• Contributes to a healthy and safe working environment.
• Performs other duties, as required. 

You bring these essential talents :

• Excellent understanding of safe food handling practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Physically able to carry full meal bags.
• Good working knowledge of the city and surrounding area is beneficial.
• Experience working with seniors  is considered an asset.
• Ability to be on-call and accept ‘last-minute’ delivery requests is considered an asset.