MEALS on Wheels South Australia has celebrated a major milestone this month by delivering its 50 millionth meal.
The volunteer-based organisation has been operating in South Australia since 1953 and the Mount Gambier branch has been open since 1962.
Meals on Wheels Mount Gambier regional branch support officer Lisa Fewins said the organisation was grateful for its volunteers, but there was always room for more people.
“We welcome anyone in the community that would like to spend a little time with us, even if it is just one or two days a month,” she said.
Ms Fewins said although meals were generally delivered to the elderly, younger members of the public were still encouraged to volunteer.
“It is great for the older generations to get to know the younger ones,” she said.
“Some of our clients do not have grand children or are unable to visit them often, so to be able to see young people giving back really puts a smile on their faces.
“We have a close relationship with Grant High School and St Martins Lutheran College, which send students to volunteer throughout the school
year.
“They have a great time and walk away with a sense of accomplishment knowing they have helped someone in addition to making good friends.”
Catering to around 170 clients in the region, Ms Fewins said the service was a vital part of our community.
“Not only are we providing healthy, balanced meals, but we are also able to check up on people who may not have any family to do it for them,” she said.
“We are always happy to catch up and make sure things are going smoothly in their lives too.”
Always looking to do more, delivery drivers have even been known to help clients with day to day chores.
“We try to help wherever we can, whether it is delivering their mail or bringing in their bins – anything we can do to make their lives easier is a bonus,” Ms Fewins said.
Meals on Wheels SA chief executive Sharyn Broer thanked the 7000 volunteers and 11,000 clients that have made 50 million meals possible.
“We look forward to continuing to service to South Australian communities and delivering another 50 million meals in the future,” she said.
