Boerne Brew - Jeff Flinn with Olivia Burdick - Meals On Wheels November 29 2025 This episode of "The Boerne Brew" features Jeff Flinn, managing editor at the Boerne Star, interviewing Olivia Burdick, executive director of Meals on Wheels in Kendall County. They discuss the importance of Meals on Wheels, how the program operates, the impact on the community, volunteer opportunities, funding challenges, and the ongoing need for community support. The conversation also touches on local events like Dickens on Main and the spirit of giving during the holidays.
Timeline
0:00 – Introduction: Jeff Flynn welcomes listeners, mentions local events (Dickens on Main, Christmas tree lighting).
0:48 – Introducing Olivia Burdick from Meals on Wheels.
1:18 – Overview of Meals on Wheels in Kendall County (42 years of service).
1:57 – Service area and mission: providing meals and welfare checks for older adults.
2:38 – Volunteer drivers: their dedication and relationships with clients.
3:58 – Who qualifies for Meals on Wheels; no waiting list in Kendall County.
4:46 – National context: many programs have long waiting lists.
5:07 – How to refer someone or volunteer; importance of community support.
6:14 – Contact information: website and phone number for Meals on Wheels.
6:36 – How meals are prepared and delivered; daily operations.
7:00 – Volume of meals served: 56,000/year via Meals on Wheels, 17,000/year at the center.
7:53 – Special meals for holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving).
8:28 – Volunteer stories: personal experiences delivering meals.
10:00 – How to volunteer, time commitment, and background checks.
11:00 – Substitute volunteers and business partnerships.
12:00 – Funding challenges: operating on 2019 budget, increased demand post-COVID.
13:00 – Federal and state funding, need for local fundraising.
14:00 – Personal stories about the impact of Meals on Wheels.
15:00 – No income requirement; eligibility based on need.
16:00 – The importance of community and family support.
17:00 – Final call to action: volunteer, refer someone, or donate.
18:00 – Closing remarks, upcoming episodes, and thanks.
Original Air Date: November 29, 2025, as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM
https://thecenterboerne.org/meals-on-wheels-kendall-county/
https://www.boernestar.com/
