Some Wake County seniors got a surprise lunchtime visit from their town's mayor on Wednesday.

Wednesday was "Mayors for Meals Day," sponsored by the Meals on Wheels program. The purpose is to give local leaders a chance to support homebound seniors and the Meals on Wheels volunteers who deliver them meals.

This year Garner mayor Ronnie Williams, Zebulon mayor Robert Matheny, and former Cary mayor Koka Booth participated. Wake Forest town commissioner Ann Hines volunteered on behalf of mayor Vivian Jones.

"When a community's good to you, it's your responsibility to give back," said Williams. "So this is part of giving back to the community."

Williams delivered hot lunches to residents living in the apartments in the old Garner High School building.

"They get a warm, nutritional meal," he said. "They get a friendly face and a smile and a few kind words at the door. I'm just honored to be a part of it."

Alan Winstead, executive director of Wake County Meals on Wheels, said the organization is always looking to add to its team of 150 volunteers.

"Those people just come by and stop and chat with them to make sure they're OK," he said. "They're able to build a relationship with them."

Right now, about 1,100 people are delivered lunches in their homes. Another 200 are on a waiting list.

"Getting a hot meal and a short social visit everyday enables them to stay at home and live independently longer," said Winstead.

To volunteer, call the Meals on Wheels office at 919-833-1749.