Delivering Meal on Wheels in the month of May has become a tradition for Mike Branscombe, Fire Prevention Officer with Prince Edward County Fire & Rescue.

Since 2019, Branscombe not only helps with delivering the meals, but while doing so, takes the opportunity to chat with clients, talk fire safety, and will check fire and carbon monoxide alarms for clients who need assistance.

“Community Care is always there when I’m helping with elderly people,” said Branscombe about the various community programs that he works on with The Prince Edward County Community Care for Seniors Association. “I like meeting people, talking to them, seeing if there’s anything we can do as a community partner to help out with fire safety.”

In his many years on the job, Branscombe has a deep sense of community. Community Care Coordinator Keith Powell went on a ride along with Branscombe on May 30 to deliver meals in Picton.

“Mike took his time to chat with every client, ask them if they needed anything,” said Powell. “Because of his breadth of knowledge of The County and various agencies and services, he was really educating clients on what’s available to help seniors in our area.”

Prince Edward County has one of the highest senior populations in Ontario. Thanks to more than 400 dedicated Prince Edward Community Care for Seniors volunteers, a variety of essential services are available to help older adults live independently at home. Last year alone, volunteers delivered 10,704 meals to Prince Edward County seniors.

Beyond Meals on Wheels, Community Care for Seniors offers a range of services, including transportation, reassurance programs, foot care, grocery delivery, help with forms, homemaking and home maintenance, caregiver support, and virtual and in-person social activities.

To learn more or to register for services, call Community Care for Seniors at 613-476-7493 or visit www.communitycareforseniors.org.