Blog

For sixteen years, Ernie Daigle has been a lifeline for older adults and individuals with disabilities in his community. As a dedicated Meals on Wheels driver for Access Care Partners (formerly WestMass ElderCare), Ernie has not only delivered nutritious meals but also provided warmth, kindness, and companionship to those he serves. This December, Ernie will retire, leaving behind a legacy of service and an impact that will not be forgotten.

Before joining Access Care Partners, Ernie worked for Coca-Cola. After retiring from that role, he found himself drawn to a job that would allow him to stay connected with people and give back to the town where he grew up. And so, he became a Meals on Wheels driver, navigating the familiar streets of his hometown of Ware with a smile and a sense of purpose.

A ride along with Ernie is like stepping into a living history book. As he drives, he points out landmarks, shares historical facts, and reminisces about his childhood home. His pride in his community is palpable, and that same deep connection extends to the people he serves each day. These are the people Ernie knows, and cares for, who come to his polka dances at the Polish American Citizen Club in Ludlow, who he grew up with, and who he has met along the way.

Ernie’s warmth is evident with every stop he makes. His clients eagerly anticipate his arrival, not just for the meal he delivers, but for the conversation and reassurance he provides. At one home, a woman cautions him about an impending snowstorm, worried for his safety. At another, he takes the time to bring in the newspaper and mail for an older adult in a wheelchair, knowing how difficult it is for him to get outside. For many, Ernie is the only person they see in a day. Some invite him in, longing for company, but he gently explains that he has more meals to deliver. Even so, he always takes a moment to check in, ensuring each client is safe and well.

Beyond delivering meals, Ernie performs crucial wellness checks. Over the years, he has encountered clients in distress—some suffering from illness, others who have fallen, and in one tragic instance, he discovered a client who had passed away. His presence has often meant the difference between someone getting the help they need or being left alone in a vulnerable situation.

As Ernie prepares to retire, his absence will be deeply felt, not only by Access Care Partners but also by the many clients who have come to rely on his kindness and dependability. His years of service have been more than a job; they have been a mission of care, community, and connection. While he may be stepping away from his daily route, the impact of his work will endure in the lives he has touched, one meal at a time.