Let’s ‘wheel out’ the praise for volunteers

National Meals on Wheels Day on 25 August is our opportunity to recognise the commitment and resilience of our volunteers. 

Maroondah’s dedicated team delivers on average 850 meals per week to support the health and wellbeing of some of our most vulnerable community members. The essential service they provide is available for those who may be nutritionally at risk, experiencing difficulty preparing meals, or living with an illness or disability. 

Meals on Wheels also plays an important role in early intervention, as well as allowing older Australians to live longer in their homes. 

Long-time volunteer Kevin Southey said he is proud to give back to his community. 

“I’ve now been volunteering for 12 years and I’ll do it for as long as I can. After I retired, I was encouraged to get out in the community and stay active, so volunteering has become a big part of my life,” Mr Southey said. 

“I enjoy the interaction with the community members and it feels good to brighten up their day. Sometimes you’re the only face they might see for the day. 

“Maroondah does such a great job in cooking and delivering all these meals every week. Meals on Wheels means the world to so many. If you’ve thought about volunteering before, I would encourage you to find out more.” 

Maroondah Mayor, Councillor Kylie Spears, said we must pay tribute to our volunteers. 

“We are so thankful for our volunteers. Even in the face of the pandemic and changing restrictions, they continue to dig deep and deliver this service that has such a benefit on so many people’s lives,” Cr Spears said. 

“On behalf of our community and Council, we are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our volunteers, which ensures older Australians remain well-nourished and able to live safely in their homes.” 

A significant benefit of delivered meals is face-to-face contact with the volunteers, when restrictions allow, who become an important point of contact and reduce social isolation. 

Typically, people choose between one to seven meals weekly, which our Karralyka kitchen staff prepare to a high standard. Choices of four main meals are available daily, as well as soup and dessert.

For information on how to access services, visit the My Aged Care website, or call 1800 200 422. If you have any further questions, you can call Council’s Aged and Disability Services team on 9298 4540 or email [email protected].

There is always a need for some ‘wheels’ for our Delivered Meals program. To enquire about becoming a volunteer, call Council’s Aged and Disability Services team on 9294 5729 or email [email protected].