MealTimes
NOVEMBER 1999
Links to Previous Editions |
Serving our homebound neighbors |
Is there anything else we can do for you today? This is the last question John and Lois Satariano ask homebound recipients before they leave to deliver the next meal on their route.
Both born in
Pittsburgh, PA, the Satariano’s moved to Syracuse in 1966 where they have resided for
33 years. John’s brother and sister_in_law volunteered for Meals on Wheels of
Pittsburgh which was the catalyst for the Satariano’s becoming volunteers for Meals
on Wheels of Syracuse.
The Satariano’s have been volunteering for Meals on Wheels of Syracuse for nearly three years. When asked why they decided to volunteer both responded that they feel they have been given another opportunity to give something back in life. They were unable to help out their parents as much as they would have liked and feel that volunteering is the way to do it. "We can now do for other people’s parents what we couldn’t do for our own," they explained.
The Satariano’s work as a team four days a week and are two of our most flexible volunteers. Each day they deliver and serve our clients a hot meal and cold supper. They respond to every request with enthusiasm. If we have an emergency situation they are willing to switch routes or take on an additional route. They are the people our recipients look forward to seeing every afternoon. Not only do they have a ready smile with their delivery, but also ask if they can be of any extra help.
John and Lois agree that a person’s attitude says it all. "We may be the only person the recipient sees all day and make every effort to be as pleasant as possible, "states John. They feel a person’s emotional health is very important. They take the time to talk to each person. They love getting involved with the recipients and always lend a helping hand. Whether it is cutting meat, opening milk or taking out garbage the Satariano’s willingly respond.
We all look forward to their arrival and their special treats. They always carry candy with them as well as sugar_free candy for those with diet restrictions and dog biscuits for pet owners. We can say they are as sweet as the treats they bring!
The Satariano's want people to know, "we care about you!" We believe they do.