Volunteer Delivery Drivers

The Humanitarian Service Project

Senior Citizen Project

Roberta R.

Receiving Groceries Since 2008

Monthly deliveries include:

7 selections of fresh vegetables

6 selections of fresh fruits

7 varieties of frozen meats

5 bags of non-perishables

1 bag of paper products and personal care items

Gifts from a Secret Pal

Many seniors struggle through the task of daily living.  Health problems have become overwhelming along with the worries of limited financial support.  Loneliness becomes an issue as the senior has little ability to go out on her own and few come to see her.  On top of all of this, basic necessities such as food become an issue of anxiety.  Thankfully, HSP is able to provide deliveries of food and goods each month in order to relieve a great deal of this anxiety.

          Roberta, a resident of Wheaton since 2002, is very thankful to be part of HSP.  She finds it difficult to afford the items she needs with the rising costs of living.  She appreciates everything that we send her and if she can not use it, she will share with a neighbor to make sure everything gets put to good use.  She knows what it is like to be resourceful as Roberta grew up in a family of 7 children.  She had 4 brothers and 2 sisters.  Her youngest set of siblings were twins, but the girl passed away at 18 hours old.  Unfortunately, these siblings are just fond memories as she is the only one still living in her family.  Her mother passed away at 70 years old and her father at 84.  Born in Kentucky, Roberta lived in Tennessee during her childhood.  As soon as she was of age, she started work in Nashville.  She met her husband there and had one child together.  Unfortunately, her son has passed away and she is divorced.  Roberta came to the Chicago area in 1950.  She has mostly worked in factories her whole life, first at Eco products, producing supplies for the army and navy, and then as a sewing machine operator.  The only family she has left is nieces.  She fortunately has a good relationship with them and tries to keep the fond memories of her siblings alive with them.

          Although Roberta often feels as if she is alone, she does have some friends that regularly come to visit with her.  They drive her to stores if she needs to go and just spends time with her so she is not so lonely.  This is how she spends much of her time.  She greatly respects these few tight knit friends and keeps them close to her heart.  Without these people, she feels depressed.  Much of her family that brought joy to her in the past is no longer there. Roberta has arthritis that makes it painful to do some things, especially work with her hands.  She is also on medication for her heart.  Otherwise, her health is fairly good.  She does wear reading glasses but she fortunately does not have to get new ones anytime soon.  She does not particularly enjoy reading or watching tv but would rather be with people.  We are grateful to provide much needed comfort and assistance to this very warm and deserving woman.