Side by Side

This portrait series shines a light on something many of our neighbors experience each day: loneliness — and the power of connection to counter it. Many Meals on Wheels clients live alone, where the hours between visits can be quiet. In those moments, companionship matters. These images by Joe Crimmings capture the steady, meaningful bond between people and their pets — a source of comfort, routine, and presence that helps make each day feel a little less alone. 

"I'm not going anywhere without him."

Liz and Roman have spent more than a decade side by side, building a life shaped by quiet routines and constant companionship. “He’s just there… we talk throughout the day,” she says, describing a presence that fills the space around her. As she’s grown older, neighbors have stepped in to help walk him, and familiar faces arrive each day with food and treats. “He knows who’s coming, they bring him dog treats.” The support around them makes it possible for Liz to keep their bond intact, holding together a life built on loyalty, care, and connection. 

"I am definitely her person."

Sharon has always had animals in her life, but Jude brings a different kind of energy. From the moment she arrived, she was in constant motion, darting around, curious about everything, never quite ready to sit still. Even now, Jude bounces from place to place, always circling back to Sharon. Sharon laughs that she never gets anything done anymore, but there is no frustration in it. Jude keeps her moving, keeps her company, and in all that motion, makes the days feel full.

“He’s a big incentive to get outside and keep moving.”

Ken has lived in his home for 67 years, building a life rooted in familiarity and independence. These days, Buddy is at the center of it all. “Oh, it’s wonderful when Buddy’s around. He’s a great guy to have around,” Ken says. The two move through each day together, whether it’s a short walk down the driveway or simply sharing space. Buddy keeps him active, but more than that, he keeps him company. Meals on Wheels brings a steady stream of friendly faces, but it’s Buddy who fills the quiet in between, offering comfort, routine, and a reason to keep going each day.

“It’s a nice bond to have an animal keeping you company.”

Sharon has lived in her home since 1972 and has made adjustments so she can stay there. Her cats came into her life by chance and have become central to how she lives. They sleep with her and stay close throughout the day. She prefers them because they are easier to care for and do not require help from others. Meals on Wheels is part of her routine. The meals are useful, but the visits stand out more. Volunteers come regularly, and she looks forward to each visit. These interactions matter. It breaks up the day and gives her something to look forward to.

“She’s really been a comfort to me.”

After a long hospital stay, Susan returned
home unsure how to begin again, but Mocha was there for her, bringing a sense of calm back into the space. As she worked through recovery, Meals on Wheels helped her slowly regain her appetite and rebuild a daily rhythm. The visits offered more than food, they brought conversation and a reminder that she was not alone. With each day, those small moments of care and companionship helped Susan move forward, turning a difficult chapter into one grounded in connection, comfort, and renewed strength.

"She is my life."

Paul says it plainly when he talks about Bella. She follows him from room to room and makes sure he is never alone. Mornings feel better with her nearby and even quiet moments feel shared. Meals on Wheels adds to that rhythm. “I just enjoy Pam’s visit,” he says, looking forward to the knock at the door. The meals help, but the connection matters just as much. Paul once helped feed thousands in his community and now he is part of that same circle of care. With Bella at his side, his days feel full and steady.