Originally from Chicago, Jeff moved to Memphis in 1990 not really knowing much about the south. In fact, the first week he lived here he was suspended from school for not saying, "yes ma'am" and "no ma'am." Jeff has since developed a passion for Memphis and especially Memphis music. A member of several bands including Snowglobe and Me & Leah, Jeff works as a communications consultant with many non-profits including Playback Memphis, Church Health, Room in the Inn-Memphis and BLDG Memphis. Jeff lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife and two daughters.
Congregate meals at community centers highlight partnerships, social benefits to eating together, and food provided at the neighborhood level. MIFA says it's an aspect of Meals on Wheels that many still don’t know about.
“Supporting senior food programs is important for local communities and presents an opportunity for advocacy with public officials,” says Executive Director of Aging Commission of the Mid-South Kim Daugherty.
Committed staff drivers who are responsible for the bulk of meal deliveries to MIFA clients in and around Memphis. Sometimes they are the only face the person receiving a meal sees all day.
Here's a look at the collaborative work that ensures meals are delivered in a timely manner as MIFA runs food service to homes Monday through Wednesday and to 14 area congregate sites Monday through Friday.
What is it like to volunteer to bring meals to seniors? Volunteer Jeff Squires says, “It’s very rewarding. Most people are gracious and happy to see us. It might be one or two words or a thankful expression. It’s touching.”
This week, we hone in on how the plan will be carried out as the community works together to improve the social and economic systems and policies in Memphis.
Jeff Hulett speaks with Alliance Healthcare Services CEO Laurie Powell about the new crisis wellness center, Alliance Healthcare Services celebrating 50 years, and more.