By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Falcons pros, kids team up to deliver food for Meals on Wheels
0327falcons3
Atlanta Falcons player Curtis Lofton, right, jokes with a resident through the door Thursday afternoon as he, teammate Kroy Biermann and members of the Flowery Branch High and Junior Falcons football teams delivered meals to about a dozen residents to raise awareness of the Gainesville-Hall County Meals on Wheels program.

Although Hugh Dorsey has lunch delivered to his home every weekday, Thursday’s visit was a bit different, so he dressed for the occasion.

After donning a sharp, navy blue blazer, Dorsey pulled up a seat at his dining room table and waited for his special guests.

In addition to the usual staff from the Gainesville-Hall County Meals on Wheels program, Dorsey’s midday meal was brought to his doorstep by Atlanta Falcons players Curtis Lofton and Kroy Biermann.

"It always feels good to get out in the community," said Biermann, a second-year defensive end.

"A lot of these people can’t get out and do things, so it’s nice to come in and be with them."

According to Meals on Wheels staff, the program provides meals to about 450 elderly and disabled Hall County residents each day.

"I’m a big sports fan, so this was a real treat," said Dorsey, 92.

In addition to the NFL athletes, members of the Flowery Branch High School football team and players from the Junior Falcons football program also helped deliver meals. "I wasn’t sure exactly what we would be doing, but I knew it would be a good opportunity to help people," said junior Connor Shaw, Flowery Branch’s star quarterback. "It’s been a good experience."

Thursday’s cooler temperatures and sporadic rainfall didn’t dampen the spirits of the entourage as it visited with about a dozen Meals on Wheels clients.

"Come on and get this hot meal," Lofton joked while knocking on the door of a resident who took a bit longer to answer the door.

Even for nonsports fans, Thursday’s visit was a treat for all.

"I’ve got a house full today," Lorie Garrett said as her meal was delivered. "I sure thank all of y’all for coming and spending this time with me."

Although this was the first time that either Lofton or Biermann have worked with Meals on Wheels, both say the outing was a great experience.

"We came because we wanted to help out," said Lofton, a second-year linebacker. "There are a lot of people out there who need help, so if we are able to do something, we should. Since most of them can’t travel to the games to see us play, this is like bringing the game to them."