Joann Kercsmar and Ana Maria Melo have a surplus of activities to keep themselves occupied.

Yet, they still find the time to give back to the community they so love through their volunteerism.

Both Kercsmar and Melo are among the volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels of Palmerton who deliver food to clients’ homes.

For their efforts, the twosome were among those honored at the annual Meals on Wheels volunteer appreciation picnic held Tuesday in the Palmerton Memorial Park.

Becky Steigerwalt, president of the organization, said the food was catered by the Kunkletown General Store, and featured two kinds of barbecues, mini hoagies, potato salad and other items. There were also cupcakes by Nicki Frank.

Steigerwalt said the group has 14 drivers, 10 of which are regulars, and four of which are substitutes.

“It’s our way of thanking the drivers for their time,” Steigerwalt said. “They use their own vehicle, and look for no compensation; it’s all volunteer.”

Steigerwalt noted that Meals on Wheels of Palmerton is funded by local businesses and loyal local individual supporters.

Why they volunteer

Kercsmar said she’s been a volunteer with the organization for about 10 years.

“It’s a great program,” Kercsmar said. “I do it because I want to give back to the community.”

Kercsmar said oftentimes the drivers themselves are the only ones who come in contact with the clients.

“Volunteering is good for the soul,” she said. “I wish more people would take advantage of the program.”

Melo said she’s volunteered with the group for about the past seven years.

“I enjoy it,” Melo said. “It’s a good thing to do.”

Melo said she plans to continue to volunteer as long as she’s able.

“Let’s hope God keeps me healthy,” she said. “It’s a good feeling to know you’re delivering a meal.”

About the program

From 1972 to Dec. 31, 2018, Palmerton Meals on Wheels got its food from the Palmerton Hospital kitchen.

As of June 8, 2020, meals were prepared by Meals on Wheels of the Greater Lehigh Valley and then delivered to Meals on Wheels of Palmerton.

Steigerwalt said they recently approached borough businesses such as Bert’s Steakhouse and Papa Al’s to provide meals.

She said Bert’s is providing three weeks worth - 15 different meals - to clients.

“Our drivers show up at Bert’s, pick up their meals, take them to the clients,” Steigerwalt said. “If it works well, we’ll see if we should (add) other businesses.”

Steigerwalt said that at present, they have 10 clients.

She said that they must have a doctor referral, and report any dietary issues.

Steigerwalt said that for information on how to become a client or a volunteer for the Meals on Wheels program, contact coordinator Richard Bowman at 610-826-1163.