June 26, 2025
Your volunteerism makes a real, direct impact in our neighbors’ lives. Thomas, one meal recipient, shares that many Meals on Wheels volunteers have become his friends.
One such friend is Meghna, a former software engineer, who delivers his meals and helps with his tech each Wednesday.
Thomas is one of the thousands of neighbors you empower when you support our lifeline at Meals on Wheels Central Texas. Read Thomas' story below.
Filmmaking Brought Thomas to Texas
Thomas’ story begins along the northeast coast. He was born in Boston and attended the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City for college. At SVA, a professor of animation studies took young Thomas under his wing.
With an apprenticeship at an animation studio, Thomas gained his footing in the film industry. Soon enough he was learning the ropes on a live action film set. Eventually, Thomas realized his passion was documentary filmmaking.
Thomas left New York to work in Los Angeles for some time before making his way to Cleveland, Ohio, where he ran his own production company. “I didn’t really like the Midwest,” Thomas confesses, “for one, there was no ocean!” Thomas shares that he’d been hearing about the Hollywood of the Southwest, or Austin, Texas.
It was 2014 when an Austin-based nonprofit called Thomas to inquire about his documentary services. Thomas took a chance and came to Texas to see what the local scene had in store for him.
Thomas admits that he experienced trouble finding work after his project with the nonprofit.
“I was 60 at the time, and I don’t know if it was ageism, but I felt my chances of producing were getting slimmer,” he shares.
Thomas decided on a later in life career change and became a caregiver. Today, Thomas is retired but maintains creative practice of writing.
volunteers bring meals and moments
Three years ago, Thomas had surgery on his esophagus and needed to maintain a soft diet. This is when he sought the services of Meals on Wheels. The team was able to help Thomas get pureed meals to accommodate his dietary needs.
“I’ll tell you what. I guess it was three years ago. The same people volunteering to help me then are the same people helping. Even today!” Thomas expresses.
Meghna, who today is a caregiver and former software engineer, volunteers to deliver meals every Wednesday. “I help him fix his computer and printer sometimes. I try to cheer him up and solve any issues he may have,” Meghna shares. The special bond between volunteer and neighbor is evident with the two. Thomas and Meghna are testimony to the Power of The Knock.
Midway through summer, we are looking for friendly people to join us in mission. You can experience the connections made through meal delivery. Join us for a one time, regular, or subsitute route today.
Click below and make connection possible!