Submitted photo Meals on Wheels accepts donation of colorful handmade placements from Northern Chautauqua Quilting Companions. From left are Margo Perrello, Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels; quilters Cheryl Gawronski, Mary Mills, Joanne Kelley, Bonnie Schneider, Barb Lehnen and Connie Piccolo of Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels.

Remember when mom or grandma got out the “good” linens and dishes at holiday time?

The festive, celebratory atmosphere was enhanced by the appearance of cloth napkins and tablecloths, often in shades of 1970s avocado green or harvest gold. Everything about them still felt special, if hopelessly dated, even as the years went by.

The connection of fabric and family – and what it means to people who might be on their own at holiday time – especially if family is gone or not close by – is undeniable. This year, as the pandemic rages, many homebound seniors will find themselves spending at least part, if not all, of the upcoming holidays sheltering at home, alone.

With that possibility in mind, a local quilting group made a special effort to spread some cheer to the homebound this holiday season.

At the suggestion of member (and Meals on Wheels volunteer) Joanne Kelley, the busy sewers at Northern Chautauqua Quilting Companions began making colorful holiday placemats, whittling down a large stash of quilting material as they did so. By the time they were finished, they had designed and created over 200 handmade placemats to brighten the Thanksgiving tables of Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels clients.

“We are grateful for these talented crafters who share their talents and generous spirit by creating beautiful quilted works, such as these placemats, for others,” remarked Debra Pacos, Executive Director, Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels. “Thoughtful gifts such as these brighten the days of our many meal recipients and exemplify the true meaning of community spirit.”

Staffed mainly with volunteers, Meals on Wheels delivers nutritionally balanced meals Monday through Friday to eligible clients — people over 60 who can’t easily leave home and who don’t have someone able to help them prepare nutritious meals. Delivery drivers also do a daily wellness check and provide companionship for clients.

A proud United Way Community Partner, Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels also receives support for its programs and operations from the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging, RSVP, area foundations, service organizations, churches and individual donors.

For more information on how you can volunteer, contribute or speak out for the seniors in Northern Chautauqua County, contact Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels at 366-8822 or email dpacosdfmow@netsync.net.