Companion Calls

A home-delivered meal from FeedMore WNY Foundation carries a commitment far beyond good nutrition.

When an individual receives meals through FeedMore WNY — whether on a temporary or long-term basis — follow-up phone calls, known as Companion Calls, are part of the service.

Calling from FeedMore WNY offices, dedicated volunteers ask about the food quality, how each person is feeling, and whether there have been any concerns, questions, or changes in routine.

Most of all, volunteers work to get a sense of the client’s overall wellbeing and take time to make meaningful connections with them.

FeedMore WNY On-Site Volunteer Coordinator, Aaron Tice, encourages volunteers to take as much time as needed with each call.

“It’s better to have a two-hour conversation with one person than several calls of no consequence,” he says.

At times, these conversations lead to important discoveries. A doctor may have changed a diet, or there may be difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or other physical activities. In some cases, isolation or confusion is causing stress.

Volunteer call notes are shared with Cassidy Bertino, a FeedMore WNY social worker for appropriate follow-up. Family members are contacted, the Nutrition Department may adjust meals, and the Social Work Department may connect with the County to explore additional services.

Companion Calls are one more layer of support within FeedMore WNY’s home-delivered meals program — valued by clients and families, and appreciated by volunteers who make them, too.