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VOLUNTEER PROFILE Barry Coggins devotes his life to fighting isolation and food insecurity to benefit older adults in our community. “Meals on Wheels!” comes the cheery greeting as Nashville songwriter Coggins knocks on the door of his latest delivery destination. For more than twentyfive years as a volunteer, Coggins has spearheaded an effort to deliver hot food to older adults in need for FiftyForward Fresh/ Meals on Wheels. “Food for the body and conversation for the soul” is his motto as he spends every Thursday out in the community making deliveries, often bringing friends along to help. In all his years of service, he has delivered an estimated 9,000 meals and volunteered 3,000 hours. “It’s a good habit to have … It’s a wonderful thing to be able to share food and conversation with people who enjoy the company,” says Coggins about his service. "Delivering meals means just as much to me - probably more than it does for the people who need the meals. The hugs I get are worth any time I invest."
FALL 2019
FiftyForward supports, champions and enhances life for those 50 and older.
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Barry Coggins devotes life to benefit older adults in our community In her own words: Jean Harrington FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels
Barry Coggins is seen here with Sharie Loik Goodman (L), director of FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels and Gretchen Funk (R), associate executive director of Supportive Care Services.
Coggins also shows his love of FiftyForward Fresh through fundraising. He recently hosted the Barry Coggins Golf Tournament for FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels for the twentieth year in a row, raising more than $20,000. In addition, he hosts an annual singer/songwriter night and ‘Barry-oke’ as events which bring in much-needed funds for the program. According to a study by Feeding America, Tennessee is tied with Missouri as the 41st most food-insecure state. More than one million Tennesseans are food insecure, 17.1% of the state’s population. FiftyForward Fresh seeks to alleviate hunger for older adults who are isolated or in need, delivering more than 18,000 nutritious meals annually, including on weekends and holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Volunteers like Barry Coggins are the heart and soul of the mission. 1
Jean Harrington resides in a senior tower and depends on FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels. She recalls how going to the grocery store was getting harder. It was especially challenging when she’d forget something or not have what she wanted or needed to make a meal. She said her son, who takes great care of her, found FiftyForward Fresh. Harrington is thankful for the dependability and regular deliveries. “It the food, is there for you all the time.” Harrington hails from Northern New York near the Canadian border but moved to Nashville to be closer to family. “I couldn’t be more pleased with the meals,” she said. “Every dinner has such variety.” She’s also happy to have fruit and healthy options — especially the spaghetti made with whole grain noodles and other substantial meals. She said, “I’m overwhelmed with how much I look forward to getting my meal.” She especially loves the young people who come to her door. “They are so proud and enjoy being useful. Volunteers have meant a lot. It is like a guest that you didn’t have to invite, but who shows up.” "Please do not forget those of us who are living alone in our homes. We need this kind of encouragement!" — Vera Thompson, Belmont area meal recipient