Our delivery drivers do more than deliver meals - they build real relationships with clients, often serving as a vital point of contact and support. This personal approach helps ensure clients feel seen, heard, and cared for, especially when care managers are unavailable.
In a fast-paced world, our delivery drivers do more than drop off meals - they offer a personal touch. When care managers aren’t available, they check in with clients, ensuring everyone feels supported and cared for.
Deandra Miller Fajardo Interview Transcript:
How do our delivery drivers support clients beyond meal delivery?
You know, every client has to have a care manager. Now that we're working with the NCE, sometimes they just can't get a hold of their care manager. So, we kind of take that role on and try to provide the resources that they need, and try and find the care manager for them or reach out to Anthem or Humana, and try and find those people.
Why are personal connections important for our clients?
When our delivery drivers are delivering, that might be the only person clients see the whole week. Or when they call us, that might be the only time they're getting any communication. So, our delivery drivers don't just drop the meals and go - they make sure they have conversations with the clients. They really get to know them on a personal level, to where if a driver is an hour late, the client will call us and ask if their driver is okay. They care about each other.
“Personal connections make a real difference for our clients. Our drivers are often the bridge between clients and the support they need, especially when care managers are out of reach.”
— Deandra Miller Fajardo
How do drivers act as informal wellness checks?
Because they have that personal relationship, and not everyone has a caretaker or caregiver with them, our delivery drivers are doing an informal wellness check. They make sure clients are okay and have everything they need. If not, they provide our phone number so we can connect them with resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What extra support do delivery drivers provide?
They check in on clients, offer resources, and help connect them with care managers if needed.
Why do clients value their delivery drivers?
Drivers may be the only person clients see all week, building trust and personal bonds.
How do drivers help when care managers are unavailable?
Drivers step in to provide support, share resources, and help clients reach their care managers.
Jeff Scheck
About the Author
Jeff Scheck is the Executive Vice President of Chef for Hire, bringing over 25 years of experience in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and compliant meals to communities across Indiana. With specialized expertise in Senior Nutrition programs, Jeff has led efforts to design and oversee meal services that meet diverse dietary needs while supporting the health and independence of older adults. He holds a B.S. in Nutrition from Purdue Global and a Culinary Arts degree from Johnson & Wales University, along with HACCP Food Safety and ServSafe Manager certifications. With hands-on expertise spanning hotels, restaurants, catering, and large-scale food service operations, Jeff is dedicated to combining culinary excellence with community well-being. Learn more on LinkedIn.
