The majority of our meal recipients live alone, and many rarely or never leave their homes. Eight percent of them say they don't have anyone with whom to talk. Many of our frail aged neighbors remember a time when sending and receiving handwritten letters was commonplace, so getting a personalized note or card can interrupt a lonely day.
Citymeals works with student, community and corporate groups all over the city to craft handmade cards that brighten the days of isolated older New Yorkers. Each year, hundreds of students from local schools decorate cards for their homebound elderly neighbors to be delivered along with meals or food packages. Last year they created 80,000 cards.
Please join us in reminding our frail aged neighbors they haven’t been forgotten. Showing you care can be as simple as making a thoughtful card.
Children prepare handmade cards for their frail aged neighbors.
Card-making Instructions:
Printer paper folded in half, cardstock or construction paper may be used along with crayons and markers.
The front of the card should say “Thinking of you," "Have a great day," “Happy Birthday” or be seasonally appropriate like “Happy Valentine's Day,” “Happy Memorial Day” or “Happy Holidays.”
Be creative with your drawings. Designs such hearts, smiley faces, flowers, and anything else that might brighten someone's day are encouraged.
We kindly ask that you do not use glitter or religious language and symbols.
You should include your first name on the inside of the card, from your friends at Citymeals on Wheels, but please do not share other personal information.
THE BEAUTIFUL CARDS FROM THE CHILDREN ADORN MY WALLS. THIS FOOD NOURISHED MY BODY, BUT THE THOUGHTS AND LOVE THAT COME MY WAY TOUCHED MY SOUL. THANK YOU, BLESS YOU ALL.
– Anna, 80-year-old citymeals recipient
Mailing Instructions:
With your cards, please include on a separate piece of paper your full name, the name of your group, organization or company, and your email or mailing address so that we may thank you for your support.
On the outside of the envelope please list the number of cards, write “Handmade Card Project” and mail completed cards to:
Citymeals on Wheels Warehouse Handmade Card/Letter Program 1367 Viele Ave Bronx, NY. 10474
Should you need additional information, please reach out to Sheila@citymeals.org
Judy visits five of her frail aged neighbors weekly. “It’s beyond volunteering to me. It’s helping somebody who needs a ‘hello’ or a hug. That’s what matters.” Read more
100% of your donation will be used for the preparation and delivery of meals, thanks to our partnership with the New York City Department for the Aging, along with gifts from our board of directors and others designated for administrative expenses.
