With Meals on Wheels, even seniors living alone eat well

Essential needs
Social inclusion
September 8, 2021 •  By Centraide
Témoignage de Jean-Claude

Although he’s always been in a good financial and social situation, Jean-Claude now relies on the help of the Centre d’action bénévole de Boucherville (Boucherville volunteer action center) for food. At 90 years old and living alone, the dishes delivered by Meals on Wheels volunteers twice a week help him eat well and break social isolation.


“My name is Jean-Claude and I’m 90 years old. I used to be an entrepreneur and businessman. My daughter inherited my company, which now has 400 employees. Throughout my career, I made donations, particularly to Centraide. : I could never have thought I would be on the receiving end of these donations one day. When you’re 30 years old and everything’s going well, it’s hard to imagine you might need help one day. At 90, I’m so thankful for hot Meals on Wheels delivered to my home twice a week.

The Centre d’action bénévole de Boucherville was just behind my place. One day, the manager came over and offered to bring me meals, as I live alone. I didn’t think I could benefit from the help of an agency, but I must say that it makes a huge difference to my life.”

THE VAL-MARTIN COMMUNITY CENTER WAS VERY WELCOMING. I FOUND A FAMILY THERE, AND I BECAME CLOSE WITH THE FACILITATORS. I REALLY ENJOYED MY EXPERIENCE.”

“Making meals isn’t always easy when you’re old and living alone. Sometimes we tell ourselves we’re not hungry as an excuse to skip a meal. The delicious dishes cooked with love by the Centre d’action bénévole de Boucherville really help me.

I pay a small fee, but it’s nothing for the delicious food and human contact I receive when Meals on Wheels delivers my food every Tuesday and Thursday. The volunteers always make sure that I am well and that I enjoy the meals.

I have always been proud to help and volunteer. I must say that getting help from others when you need it is heartwarming.”

— Jean-Claude

Watch Jean-Claude’s testimony

Bien se nourrir, même âgé et seul | Seniors living alone can eat well