Bundaberg and District Meals on Wheels has been given a financial boost to help support the important service that the organisation delivers throughout the region.
Mayor Jack Dempsey today presented the local branch with a cheque for $2000 from Bundaberg Regional Council with a message of thanks to the volunteers who work hard to keep the community fed.
He said the organisation played a vital role in providing delicious meals to those in need and was a worthy recipient of the donation.
“Council recognises the difference this service makes to so many in the community; the connections and support provided is invaluable,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The wonderful volunteers do so much more than making meals, they are often a friendly face in times of loneliness and isolation for many members of the community.
“We would like to thank the amazing volunteers who, out of the kindness of their hearts, prepare and deliver thousands upon thousands of meals throughout the region each year.”
The donation has come in the lead up to National Meals on Wheels Day, which acknowledges and celebrates the dedication and commitment of Meals on Wheels volunteers.
President of Bundaberg and District Meals on Wheels Jeff McColl said for over 65 years the organisation had played a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of over 200,000 older Australians across 592 service locations.
Mr McColl said the donation from Council had come at the perfect time, with orders increasing drastically since COVID last year.
“When COVID first struck in 2020 we were delivering to 250 customers but as of this morning we supply meals to more than 590 customers,” he said.
“In the financial year to June this year our volunteers have delivered 80,650 meals in the Bundaberg Region.
“Any help that we can receive is very welcome, it all adds up.”
Mr McColl said as part of this year’s National Meals on Wheels Day campaign local schools and businesses were getting involved in raising funds and awareness for the organisation.
“This week I visited Norville State School for their green shirt day fundraiser which was organised by school captain Jamie,” he said.
“Local corporate bodies are also getting on board with supporting the organisation by ordering meals for National Meals on Wheels Day, which Council has participated in each year.
“In 2020 we delivered more than 80 meals to businesses as part of the campaign.”
Volunteers needed for important service
National Meals on Wheels Day is celebrated every year on the last Wednesday in August.
President of Meals on Wheels Australia Sharyn Broer said volunteers played an integral role within the organisation and with more older Australians needing the support of Meals on Wheels than ever, new volunteers were urgently required to ensure continual delivery of the service now and into the future.
“Meals on Wheels delivery drivers are required right across Australia,” she said.
“This Meals on Wheels Day we are encouraging anyone who has a few hours to spare each week to reach out to their local Meals on Wheels service and offer their support by way of volunteering.
“We have noticed a particular shortage in delivery drivers, who often use their own vehicles, so Meals on Wheels needs more wheels!”
Find out more here.
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