Meals-on-Wheels plans for a Spring event to celebrate the “Greatest Generation”

Christine Holcomb of Cleburne has a fondness for dolls: rag dolls, baby dolls, china dolls. An old fashioned crib adorns her parlor packed with her decades-old collection. And in her living room, her favorite doll of all – a doll that’s more than 100 years old, regally resides in a shadow box on the wall. This was her mother’s doll, she beams. And with that, she launches into a story of childhood memories — of playing with the doll while lounging on her mom’s feather down bed.

Otis Wilson of Waxahachie is a proud man of few words. He faithfully served his country during World War II despite the fact that at home he was required to use the “coloreds only” drinking fountains, and banished from enjoying a summer swim in the community watering hole. Ironically, the very same body of water he helped create. Later, Mr. Wilson and his wife, Ellen, were befriended by a Meals-on-Wheels volunteer who became the catalyst to Mr. Wilson finally receiving the military medals in which he was entitled – some six decades after his tour of duty.

Meals-on-Wheels is part of the reason why our more than 750 clients can continue to enjoy living independently. Some of their unique perspectives — their outlooks of the world and insightful experiences from the past — will be highlighted during the upcoming “Fabulous Forties Fling,” taking place Saturday, March 26, at the Texas Motorplex, located between Waxahachie and Ennis. The major event underwriter is the Waxahachie Autoplex.

Sponsorships are still available at levels with varying benefits. New this year, a happy hour and swing dance lessons will be available to larger sponsors and “early bird” ticket holders. Individual ticket packages will go on sale later this month.

“Last year we had an overwhelming request for dance lessons,” said Paula Baucum, event chairperson. “Therefore, we are adding an extra benefit for those that want to participate.” A “Night at the Canteen” sponsored by Subaru with a happy hour, and dance lessons sponsored by Action Automatic Sprinklers will be Friday, February 25 at the Motorplex, beginning at 6 pm.

“Hope you join us in celebrating the ‘Greatest Generation,’ and capture a glimpse from the past through those we serve,” said Baucum. “With your help, this event will raise over $60,000 to provide meals to the homebound in our area,” she added.

For sponsorship information or reservations, contact the Meals-on-Wheels office at 817.558.2840 or 972.351.9943 , or online at www.servingthechildrenofyesterday.org.

Meals-on-Wheels is a community benefit organization serving the homebound elderly and disabled residents throughout Johnson & Ellis County for 33 years.