The late Dr. Earl Russell will be the subject of a tribute dinner and fundraiser June 12 to support Meals on Wheels.
Russell, a Western alumnus, generous donor and 2006 honorary degree recipient who dedicated his life to the relief of pain, was the founder of Meals on Wheels in London.
Dr. Earl Russell
The program, which delivers nutritious meals to those unable to leave their homes and provides transportation to medical appointments, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
In 1969, Russell, then a member of the Social Concerns Committee at Byron United Church, helped launch a program similar to one in Calgary that had been recommended by his own mother.
That first effort involved six recipients. Today, 365 volunteers deliver 2,000 meals a week and provide 200 rides to appointments.
Tribute dinner tickets are $125. Call 519-660-1430, contact Melina Buragina at 519-671-2324 or mburagina@meals-on-wheels.ca or visit www.meals-on-wheels.ca.