THROUGH a small team of only 30 volunteers, Parramatta Meals-on-Wheels served up a massive 28,000 packs of lunches and dinners just in the last 12 months.
Dedicated volunteers clocked more than 3,100 hours reaching out daily at mealtimes to the local government area’s older and vulnerable residents, many living alone or far from relatives.
Sandra Bryant, a retiree since 2016, is among the designated drivers who reflected on her role as “a meaningful thing to do” as Meals on Wheels Day was celebrated across the country on 27-28 August.
“Volunteering with Meals-on-Wheels is much more than providing a service,” Ms Bryant said.
“For me, it serves a bigger purpose where I get to make someone’s day and meet others who are passionate about helping the community.”
The latest Social Impact Report cited Meals on Wheels’ 590 teams across the country with at least 35,000 volunteers are playing a crucial role in combatting widespread social isolation among older Australians.
The health and well-being findings also showed seniors aged over 65 are at risk of developing poor health conditions as a result of social isolation and lack of nutritious food.
Meals on Wheel Australia chair Paul Sadler said their service was “always more than a meal” going deeper in combating social isolation and malnutrition, two prevalent public health issues faced by older Australians.
“The positive impact of Meals on Wheels goes beyond the delivery of the meal itself,” Mr Sadler said.
“The dual benefit to both customer and volunteer truly shows how Meals on Wheels has been making a difference in almost every Australian community for over 70 years.”
Ms Bryant and her fellow local volunteers joined the celebration initiated by the Parramatta City Council to recognise their contribution.
“Throughout the years, I’ve enjoyed the friendships I’ve made and conversations where we share recipes and fashion tips,” Ms Bryant said.
“I’ve also been able to maintain my driving skills as a volunteer driver.”
Parramatta Council chief executive Gail Connolly thanked the Meals on Wheels volunteers for being the backbone of their local community.
“For seniors and people living with disabilities, this service goes beyond a weekly meal delivery and fosters stronger relationships in our community,” Ms Connolly said.
“This day celebrates all the hard work and dedication volunteers provide in our community.”
The report findings also showed thousands of seniors living on their own and regularly visited by Meals on Wheels volunteers had significant improvement in their health and well-being.
Nearly one in four seniors, particularly those in ages 80 to 90s, and residing in major cities such as Sydney and Parramatta are prioritised for assistance by Meals on Wheels.
To volunteer with Parramatta Meals on Wheels, visit https://www.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/community/building-your-community/volunteering.
Image: Meals on Wheels volunteer Sandra Bryant is among Parramatta’s kind-hearted locals generously sharing their time to help others.
