Meals on Two Wheels

On Sept. 15, 2008, Meals on Wheels and More launched our Meals on Two Wheels program, through which interested volunteers can deliver meals to the homebound via bike on certain routes in East Austin.  Volunteers can either use one of MOWAM's three specially-designed bikes and cooler-holding carts or bring their own bike and cart (provided their cart can hold two coolers.)

 

Currently volunteers who deliver out of our Central Kitchen location can sign up to be a substitute or regular bike volunteer for one of the 12 pre-selected bike routes we have designed for this area of Austin. Substitute drivers will be called upon the day of delivery between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. in the event that a regular volunteer cancels. 

 

If you are interested in getting involved with a bike route, please speak with a volunteer coordinator during your orientation, email us or call us at 476-6325 and ask to speak with Volunteer Services.

 

Bicycle Training Requirements:

1. Undergo regular volunteer training any Thursday at our Headquarters located at 3227 E. 5th Street, Austin, TX 78702. Orientations are held at 12:15 p.m. and last a little over one hour. No appointments are required. If you can't make it on Thursdays, please call us at 476-6325 or email us to set up an appointment.

2. Review the Bicycle Safety Tips handout.

3. Sign the Bicycle Release of Liability.

 

You may deliver meals using:

1. Your own bicycle, cargo cart, and coolers * You will be loaned: a safety vest, safety flag, map holder, and bicycle lock, if needed.
2. Your own bicycle

* You will be loaned: safety vest, safety flag, map holder, cargo cart with hitch attachment, and bicycle lock if needed.

Please note: We have a limited amount of cargo carts and coolers available.
3. Our equipment

* Our bicycle, cargo cart, coolers, safety vest, safety flag, map holder, and bicycle lock if needed.

Please note: We have a very limited number of bicycles available.

* We are working on identifying a bicycle store where equipment can be purchased at a discount price if you are a Meals on Wheels and More volunteer.

 

Additional Notes:

  • The Central Kitchen bike routes have been tested and deemed bike-friendly, however, conditions change. Please notify us if you discover any problems on your route.
  • Styrafoam coolers are not recommended on bike routes. Please use plastic coolers with attached lids. These can be purchased at any sporting goods store.
  • In the interest of safety, we ask that you always bring a helmet and a water bottle on the days you deliver.

Thank you for your interest in making Austin a healthier city and helping to alleviate hunger in our community!

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