Meals on Wheels has unfulfilled Christmas wishes

Each client was told they could ask for something worth $20 or less. Many asked for basic necessities, such as underwear, shirts and socks.

"We ran a little bit short this year and are hoping we can fill some of the gaps for the clients (who) are in need of certain things," said Laura Todd, volunteer coordinator for Meals on Wheels. "We had some people asking for things like silverware because they use plastic (utensils)."

For many of the clients, the only visitors they have are Meals on Wheels volunteers.

"I think a lot of them enjoy chatting and good companionship," said volunteer Vicki Skeen. "We feel like we know our clients. We've built relationships with them, and it's rewarding to bring them the food, but I think the interaction with them is more rewarding."

Volunteer Lori Rowe says it's easy to take the simple things in life for granted, such as warm blankets, socks, clean towels and washcloths.

"Just some of the things that are simple amenities are useful for people who are home-bound, or whatever their situation might be," she said.

Meals on Wheels serves about 280 people each day. Carl Hodges, 90, says the organization has given him slippers and a slip-resistant mat for his bathtub. Now that it's winter, the organization has had more requests for anything to keep clients warm, such as blankets, scarves, coats and slippers.

"We can't go to bed at night saying, 'Oh well,' and we knew that if we reached out, the community is so generous. Durham is so generous," Todd said.