Meals on Wheels hosted a Christmas lunch on Wednesday, but it was the volunteers’ turn to receive a meal. Eighty-six of the Meals on Wheels volunteers came together for the luncheon filling the Parkes Bowling and Sports Club with Christmas cheer and plenty of good will. Meals on Wheels Manager Gillian Kinsella said it was wonderful to provide a meal for them. “We really appreciate what they do,” she said. “Without our wonderful volunteers the service couldn’t run.”
The volunteers deliver 300 hot and frozen meals each week in Parkes alone, providing a vital service to the local community. The service isn’t just about supplying nutritious food, Meals on Wheels allows people to remain in their own homes, helping them to maintain their independence for as long as possible. The volunteers also offer social
interaction, and can provide important social analysis and welfare checks to clients who might otherwise be isolated.
While Wednesday’s luncheon was about showing gratitude to the volunteers, the service’s clients weren’t forgotten. On Thursday 150 Meals on Wheels patrons were invited to celebrate Christmas at another special luncheon at the Parkes Bowling and Sports Club. This time it was the clients who were delivered to their meals, with transport specially organised for the clients who were able to attend. Meals on Wheels also operates in Peak Hill, Trundle, Tullamore and Bogan Gate.
By Raen Fraser