Local heroes given credit

LOCAL HEROES: New volunteer, Michelle Forward, and volunteer of 30 years, Marj Tomkin, helping to pack meals at Inala Meals on Wheels last week.

THE local heroes of Meals on Wheels Services stepped into the national spotlight last Wednesday, as their enormous contribution to the community was celebrated on National Meals on Wheels Day.

The annual celebration recognised the work of the organisation's 80,000 volunteers at 740 branches around the country.

Together they prepare and deliver more than 15 million meals each year, enabling clients to live with independence at home.

Nutrition and health are the theme for this year's national day. Services will choose their own way to mark the occasion, whether it is involving local celebrities or public officials in delivering meals, or preparing a special main course or dessert as a treat for meal recipients.

Australian Meals on Wheels Association President Mr Leon Holmes said the day was about recognising the efforts of the organisation's volunteers and staff.

“The strength of the organisation comes from our volunteers and the incredible work they do,” he said.

“The people we serve are unable to shop or prepare for themselves and are often frail but still want to remain at home. There is no other service able to do what we do, which is to ensure our clients retain their independence and have a nutritious meal and also get the benefit of a friendly volunteer checking on their ‘well being' and making sure they are alright.

“I can't praise highly enough our volunteers, many of whom have been with their local Services for years, even decades. They come with a desire to contribute to the community, but they also make friendships and enjoy a rare sort of camaraderie.”

Meals on Wheels serves an average of 50,000 clients each weekday.