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Nearly 200 meals were hand-delivered to the disabled and senior citizens within the community by a group of volunteers last week as a means to help those who are fearful or at risk of contracting COVID-19.

The outreach, called “Senior Supper Sunday,” was a collaborative effort sponsored by Word of Faith Ambassadors Worship Center, Heart2Heart Homecare Services Inc., the HUBB Network, Southwest Wellness Association of Mississippi, Natchez Heritage School of Cooking, members of the Natchez Board of Aldermen and community volunteers.

“These sponsors got together and approached me about hosting a Senior Supper Sunday and I thought it was a brilliant idea,” said Billie Joe Frazier, Natchez alderman Ward 2. “We delivered these meals to the seniors of Ward 2 and they were very appreciative of what we did. It was just an overwhelming success. Again I’d like to thank these sponsors and also the group of volunteers who came out to help.”

Chef Jarita Frazier-King said she and the staff of the cooking school prepared meals of baked chicken, steamed rice, cake and a roll that were delivered on Saturday afternoon and could be reheated for Sunday lunch.

The group first went out and canvased the community in days prior to find out who would be interested in receiving meals, King said.

“We’ve had different people in the community say they couldn’t get out and about so we decided to help them by delivering meals to them,” King said, adding about 15 people came together to deliver the meals in the community.

One volunteer, Monica Smith, also passed out gift cards with the meals, King said. “So many people wanted to help I had to turn away volunteers trying to be mindful of social distancing,” she said.

The people they visited also enjoyed having someone to come by and say hello, King said, adding each person who delivered to them kept a safe distance and wore masks and gloves.

“It was a good way for us to check on them and see if they needed anything,” King said. “Some people just enjoy someone coming to their door and asking, ‘Hey, how are you doing?’”

The participation of the church and faith-based organizations also helps them to have a presence in their community during a time when churches had to close for the health and safety of their members, King said.

“This way, we can make sure the church is still present in the community,” she said.

King said the group is planning another “Senior Supper Sunday” delivery for the weekend after Mother’s Day, May 16. Those who would like to volunteer or need assistance can contact King at 601-807-1008 or Bishop Robert Cade at 601-334-0117.