Volunteer Program Boosts Patient Nutrition and Well-Being at URVH

The “Meal Mates” volunteer program at Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) has significantly improved patient outcomes by increasing nutritional intake. Over the past three months, the program has facilitated 310 patient visits, demonstrating the vital role proper nutrition plays in healing. According to Shelly Hubbert, the Coordinator of Volunteer Resources for the Horizon Health Network, “Proper nutrition promotes healing and quicker recovery from illnesses.”

Since the program’s inception on April 1, 2023, URVH has served a total of 863 patients, with an impressive 74 percent reporting an increase in food consumption by at least 50 percent. The program has also recorded 2,135 mealtime volunteer visits, resulting in 7,474 actions taken to support mealtime success.

Volunteer Experience Enhances Patient Care

Among the committed volunteers is Cloey Nason, a 17-year-old who joined the program in October 2024. As the program’s original volunteer, Nason has dedicated 68 hours to helping patients and has also trained nine new volunteers. Inspired by friends who participated in a different volunteer initiative, she decided to join Meal Mates after seeing advertisements on social media.

“I had an itch to help after seeing Facebook ads for the program, and the only way to scratch it was to sign up,” Nason explained. Her experience has been rewarding, as she has witnessed patients’ health improve both physically and mentally. She noted, “Once you go in every week and see their progress, you definitely notice a big change. People who receive the nourishment they need are going to a better place.”

For many patients, the companionship provided by volunteers like Nason is crucial. Many enjoy being read to during meals, which not only encourages food intake but also distracts them from their worries. Hubbert emphasized the dual benefits of the program, stating, “It’s very rewarding for the patients… but a lot of times the volunteers get just as much out of the program.”

Future Plans and Continued Commitment

As Nason prepares to graduate from high school, she intends to pursue studies in Human Kinetics and Physiotherapy. Despite her academic commitments, she plans to return to the Meal Mates program during her university breaks.

Nason encourages others to consider volunteering, stating, “If you’re interested in doing something and you have free time, honestly, volunteering is something that looks good on all resumes, and it’s really worth your time. So, if you can do it, reach out and do it.”

The success of the Meal Mates program illustrates the profound impact that volunteer efforts can have on patient care, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and companionship in the healing process. As it continues to grow, the program stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to supporting its members during challenging times.