Meals on Wheels – volunteers needed

The Meals on Wheels program run by Swan Hill Rural City Council has been dishing out nutritious meals to local folk for nearly 30 years. But guess what? They need your help now!

Meals on Wheels is a volunteer delivery service, delivering meals to the homes of community members who are unable to prepare healthy and nutritious food due to age, health or disability.

The service not only provides community members who are nutritionally at risk with access to a balanced diet, but it also offers personal interaction for those who are socially isolated.

Council’s Director of Community and Cultural services, Bruce Myers praised the amazing work of local volunteers who deliver meals to residents each day.

“Local volunteers have done and continue to do a fantastic job delivering meals across our municipality.

“Volunteer numbers are declining, and we need more helpers to ensure this service remains viable.

“Shortages are now placing extra pressure on our existing volunteers are they are being regularly called upon to fill gaps in rosters, doubling their commitment to this service,” he said.

Mr Myers said the small act of kindness can be the difference between someone staying at home or having to move to a care facility.

“It’s a rewarding way to help older folks in our community.

“Delivering meals usually only takes about an hour – ideally with enough volunteers, each person would only be rostered once per month,” he added.

Mr Myers said Council was urging any local community member who can donate an hour a month, to please consider becoming a Meal on Wheels volunteer.

If you can spare some time and would like to get involved, please contact Council’s Community Care Services Department on 5036 4700.