Hudson Meals on Wheels with Heart

In times of uncertainty, communities often reveal their greatest strength through compassion and service. The origins of Meals on Wheels date back to the Second World War in the United Kingdom, when volunteers delivered meals to those displaced by bombings and unable to prepare food for themselves. What began as a humanitarian effort eventually evolved into the Meals on Wheels programs we know today, dedicated primarily to supporting seniors and individuals with limited mobility. In Canada, the service was introduced in 1963 in Brampton, Ontario, under the auspices of the Canadian Red Cross.

One of the many qualities that makes the Town of Hudson so special is its enduring sense of community — a rarity in today’s fast-paced world. It is this spirit of care and connection that led to the creation of Hudson Meals on Wheels more than 26 years ago. For the past eight years, the organization has been led by its president, Simon Lagimodière, whom I recently had the pleasure of meeting at Bistro on the Main.

Now retired for over twenty years, Simon brings a wealth of experience from the worlds of advertising and real estate. Under his leadership, Hudson Meals on Wheels has cultivated a remarkable team of dedicated volunteers whose reliability and generosity are at the heart of the organization. Simon personally meets with recipients to better understand their needs. Many live on fixed incomes and are unable to prepare meals independently.

A large number of recipients reside at Manoir Cavagnal, where manager Paula Mesa also volunteers as Treasurer, overseeing the organization’s finances. For many recipients, the delivery of a warm meal by a familiar volunteer driver represents far more than nourishment — it is also a meaningful connection to the community.

Twice each week, volunteers gather at the Stephen F. Shaar Community Centre to prepare wholesome meals featuring meat, vegetables, and, most importantly, dessert — which, according to Simon, many recipients happily enjoy first.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, including the Town of Hudson, Hudson Meals on Wheels now maintains a website featuring current menus and information about its services and volunteer initiatives.

At a time when the world can often feel divided and uncertain, Hudson Meals on Wheels stands as a reminder that kindness, solidarity, and community spirit still thrive. It is a quiet but powerful beacon of hope — proof that even small acts of care can help make the world a better place.