Hermine’s Century of Memories
and Generosity
In 1923, Hermine was born amid the mourning of President Warren, a devastating earthquake in Japan, the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb, and just five years after the end of World War I.
Hermine traveled extensively as a young adult, visiting Machu Picchu, Germany, France, and her favorite, Australia. Now, at 102, Hermine vividly recalls her adventures, her Austrian accent thick with memories. Her home is filled with souvenirs and keepsakes from her travels, including a cherished grandfather clock that reminds her that life is lived one tick-tock at a time.
During World War II, Hermine lost her first husband, a year after their marriage. She later met her second husband, an American stationed in Germany, whom she lovingly calls “hubby.”
Since losing her husband 30 years ago, Hermine has relied on Meals on Wheels. She cherishes the companionship and meals, especially the rye bread and tender dishes. “I’m grateful for everyone who works in the [Meals on Wheels] kitchen,” she says.
A favorite among volunteers, Hermine even included the organization in her will. “I hope everyone, including me, when they close their eyes, gives to the mission,” she shares.
Your support ensures that individuals like Hermine continue to receive not just meals, but the care and connection they deserve.
“They’re Wonderful People”
For more than six decades, Iona has called San Francisco home. But when she became legally blind at the age of 21, she suddenly faced a very different world. She had to relearn how to navigate life, including dedicating a year to mastering braille as an avid reader. Despite her determination, she struggled — especially when it came to maintaining her independence.
That’s where you stepped in!
Because you give to Meals on Wheels San Francisco, you’ve allowed us to be a lifeline for Iona. The Meals on Wheels volunteers who bring her food have become her companions, even stepping in during emergencies. When her refrigerator broke down after years of use, Meals on Wheels provided her with a brand-new one.
“Their volunteers have been very helpful to me, like going with me to do errands. They’re an all-around organization that goes beyond meals,” Iona says gratefully.
Each delivery brings more than just nourishment. Alongside the meals, fresh fruit, and milk, Iona gets a sense of connection and the reassurance that she’s not alone.
As Iona puts it, “They’re wonderful people.”
Thank you for your gifts that make this kind of enormous impact possible! You help us help neighbors like Iona.
“It’s the Visit That’s Important”
Meals on Wheels San Francisco volunteer Michael knows how to deliver more than groceries to seniors in need in the Tenderloin. For the past seven years, the 80-year-old San Francisco resident has taken pride in making his deliveries, all while getting to know the people on his route.
Michael is a Home-Delivered Groceries volunteer, and he’s logged more than 1,400 hours of his time delivering food to senior neighbors in need!
“Volunteering at Meals on Wheels San Francisco gives me a purpose in life,” he says happily. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t even get out of the house.”
During one recent delivery, Michael knocked and announced himself: “Meals on Wheels!” No answer. After several attempts, he pulled out his phone and called the Meals on Wheels Safety Board — a unit designed to help in the event that a senior does not answer their door during their dedicated delivery time frame. Checking on the well-being of a senior is just as important — if not more important — than the meal delivery.
Thankfully, after a few minutes of louder knocking, the neighbor answered. Michael was able to ensure that they were all right and received the food they needed.
“It’s the people. I know I’m making a difference,” Michael says. “I enjoy seeing them, and I think they enjoy seeing me. We have this kind of relationship; it’s like a friend who does this every week. The groceries are incidental — it’s the visit that’s the important part.”
Thanks to your support, invaluable volunteers like Michael can continue their mission of care — one meal and one neighbor at a time.