Some 800 Suffolk and Windsor residents are not only thankful for meals daily, but the 300 volunteers who make it possible.

Last year, 29,056 meals were delivered to residents throughout Suffolk and Windsor by Suffolk Meals on Wheels. Sharon DeWitt, the organization’s executive director, took time last Thursday to thank the volunteers at the annual Volunteer Recognition dinner at Bethlehem Christian Church.

&uot;Ghandi once said, `The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,’&uot; said DeWitt to the volunteers at the event, &uot;I know that each and everyone of your live by the quote everyday.

&uot;I’ve seen your sincerity, commitment and loyalty to our program. And I’ve received thanks and praise for all you do from our recipients. Each day you deliver more than meals on wheels, your visits are filled with caring and kindness and our recipients show their appreciation with smiles and friendly hellos.&uot;

The program opened with a welcome by Hugh A. West, chairman of the Meals on Wheels Board of Directors. Rev. Michael Halley, of Suffolk Christian Church, gave the invocation.

Suffolk Mayor Bobby L. Ralph and Windsor Mayor Marvin A. Crocker praised the volunteers for their unselfish commitment. John Skirven, executive director of the Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (Center for Aging) also spoke.

DeWitt recognized the efforts of more than 300 volunteers. Evelyn Graham, team leader for Bethlehem Christian Church, was honored for 15 years of volunteer service; six volunteers received Volunteer of the Quarter acknowledgements: Kathleen Starling, Gary Baker, Roland Claud, Mary Catherine Foster, Charles Foster and Leon Green.

In a well-deserved surprise, Kathleen Starling was named Volunteer of the Year.

Entertainment was provided by the Prime Time Singers.

Suffolk Meals on Wheels was established in March 1987, and in 1998 in Windsor. The program is designed to assist adults, regardless of age, who are disabled and/or frail, with two nutritious meals daily. Meal recipients are &uot;homebound, hurting, and hungry,&uot; explained DeWitt, and are unable to cook for themselves or have anyone to cook for them.

Meals are delivered mid-day, Monday through Friday. Major holidays and weekends are excluded.

To apply for services, volunteer or for general information, contact Suffolk Meals on Wheels at 934-4911 or email sdewitt@obici.com

luefras.robinson@suffolknewsherald.com