Delivering Care During the Holidays: CBU Human Resources Volunteer with Meals on Wheels

During the holiday season, small acts of care can carry particular weight. In mid-December, Cape Breton University’s Human Resources team joined New Dawn Meals on Wheels to help ensure local residents received a warm meal and a friendly holiday check-in.

The HR team volunteered as part of a holiday delivery takeover, supporting individuals and families across the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Working alongside the Meals on Wheels staff, the team completed delivery training before heading out in small groups to deliver nutritious meals, seasonal cards and cookies to 41 local residents.

“As a team, we’re proud to work for an institution with deep roots and partnerships across our Island, Unama’ki. We make it a priority to step outside our office and show up in the community as leaders and to embody CBU’s values: Courage – Mel kik no’ti, Cooperation – Maw lukitimk, and Quality – Mawi kelu’lk,” said Raelynn Mechelse, Senior Labour Relations Consultant. “Their welcoming and passionate team reminded us that courage can be as simple as showing up to help.”

Lending a Hand for the Holidays

For many recipients, the visit offered a real and consistent point of contact during a season that can feel especially quiet for those living alone. James McKee, Director of Human Resources, noted that the program’s logistical ease makes it an ideal fit for busy professional teams.

“What stood out for us was how well-organized and coordinated the entire process was. The meals were planned and bagged in a way that was very easy to follow,” said McKee. “What also stood out was how grateful the clients were. It was a very meaningful way to spend an afternoon, and we would gladly recommend a ‘volunteer takeover’ to other teams.”

The experience highlighted the essential role Meals on Wheels plays year-round. Sara Roth, Manager of New Dawn Meals on Wheels, emphasized that the service provides important relief not only to recipients but also to their families.

“Knowing that a loved one is receiving a hot meal and a safety check allows family members who live away to feel a sense of relief and security,” said Roth. “At its core, Meals on Wheels is neighbours supporting neighbours. We’re all likely to need this service at some point in our lives, while at other times we may be able to offer that support to others.”

How to Get Involved

Volunteer opportunities with Meals on Wheels are designed to be flexible and low-commitment. Options range from casual shifts to a “dedicated one-day-per-month” opportunity where a department or group can adopt a route.

If you or your team would like to make a difference, you can learn more at newdawnmealsonwheels.ca/volunteer or read more about their impact in their latest community blog post.

To connect directly with the Meals on Wheels team:

• Phone: 902-562-1245
• Email: mealsonwheels@newdawn.ca