Meals on Wheels volunteers powers through lockdown

Over the past month, Meals on Wheels volunteers have soldiered on ensuring continuity of service during the lockdown to our most vulnerable in the community.

The service delivers over 120 meals every week to clients across our municipality, with demand for the service continuing to grow. 

CEO Dr Tim Harrison appreciates the dedication our volunteers have shown throughout lockdown. 

“Given what we’ve been through as a community over the past year – it’s incredibly important to recognise the role volunteers play supporting those around them," Dr Harrison said. 

“We’re fortunate to have a solid base of committed volunteers who continue to show up and deliver life-changing support for those most vulnerable in our community. 

“I’d like to thank our volunteers for the incredible work they do. Our community depends heavily on volunteer support services and programs like Meals on Wheels, who make a significant impact and improve the lives of others.

“In the past six months, we’ve had four new volunteers join the Meals on Wheels program which is fantastic. For those looking at becoming a volunteer, the Meals on Wheels program is a great place to start.”

For local resident Rose Dunne, volunteering for Meals on Wheels has been a family affair. 

“Everyone needs to have some care in our community and give back where they can. My sister, brother and his partner have always been involved with the Meals on Wheels program,” said Ms Dunne.

“I was introduced to the program by my sister who was a volunteer at the time. I tagged along on one of her rounds to help, as I had some time off, and decided to get a delivery round of my own. 

“For over twenty years, I’ve been volunteering my time, helping out the Ararat community with meal deliveries among other initiatives such as spending time at the day centre and retirement village.

“I suppose I’m a people person – I really enjoy volunteering and having a good chat. It’s a chance to give something back to the community, connect with people and make friends through these programs too. 

“We [volunteers] were able to continue volunteering through lockdown this time around, I was happy to continue supporting those most vulnerable and check-in on to make sure they are alright.

“Of course, we take necessary precautions with every visit from wearing masks, gloves to social distancing to keep everyone safe.

“Every Monday, I get the chance to check-in on familiar faces on my delivery route in the north side of town. They’re often happy to see me as it breaks up the monotony of their day.

“I’m 76, it gives me purpose and a reason to get up and give back to the community. It was hard when we couldn’t volunteer previously, I did miss doing it as it’s become part of my routine.

“It’s easy enough to spend an hour of your week giving back – it makes a big difference as you’re often the only person they may see that day,” she concluded.