Call us at 215.233.5555
Our greatest need right now is for regular and substitute drivers. We provide fresh meals to our elderly and homebound neighbors on weekdays (Monday through Friday), and we rely on our volunteer drivers to deliver those meals. If you have an hour or two to spare and are looking for an opportunity to make a difference, this is a perfect opportunity for you!
The time commitment is very flexible! You can volunteer on a weekly basis, every other week, once a month, or whatever fits your schedule. Many of our volunteers have set days and routes they deliver; however, if you are an individual who can be available as a substitute driver to fill in from time to time, that is great, too!
A delivery route typically takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Each route typically has between 5 and 10 clients. Often, volunteers spend a few minutes chatting with clients as they deliver meals.
Volunteers pick up meals for their routes at First Presbyterian Church in Flourtown (Bethlehem Pike at East Mill Road) between 9:45 and 10 am.
We have 10 routes in our delivery area, which includes Northwest Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy, Germantown, Cedarbrook, West Oak Lane, and Roxborough) and the surrounding suburbs (Wycote, Wyndmoor, Glenside, Flourtown, Oreland, Ft. Washington, and Lafayette Hill.)
We can try to accommodate your preference for a particular delivery area.
Yes! We encourage drivers to bring their children or grandchildren along. It’s a great opportunity to teach children about community service and build relationships with your neighbors. Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, or looking for a meaningful activity during school breaks or the summer, we welcome your help!
All volunteer drivers must be 18 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, a car, proof of car insurance, and submit to a complete criminal background check.
Before you start driving, we will have you ride along with an experienced volunteer as they complete their deliveries. This will give you an opportunity to learn about the organization, the delivery process, and what volunteers have to say about their experience!
Delivering meals is our biggest volunteer need, but there are a number of other ways you can help. Other volunteer opportunities include packing meals, baking, helping with fundraising, office work, making cards, birthday presents, and writing letters to our clients. If you have any other ideas, we’d love to hear them.
You can email Joanna Maier at joanna@chestnuthillmow.org, call our office 215-233-5555.