Meals on Wheels volunteer Shirley Aquilina delivering to client, Athalie Mason.
Today on National Meals on Wheels Day (Wednesday, 30 August), the iconic and much-loved meal delivery service, Meals on Wheels, is celebrating 70 years of delivering #morethanjustameal to older Australians.
For 70 years, Meals on Wheels has been supporting the health and wellbeing of older and vulnerable people.
With the dedication of many wonderful volunteers, Meals on Wheels continues to provide not only a delicious and nutritious meal, but also valuable social connection opportunities.
Meals on Wheels is an essential and unique service, unlike any other food or consumer delivery organisation.
This year, we will recognise the dedication, commitment and resilience of Orbost Regional Health Meals on Wheels volunteers, who tirelessly support vulnerable members of the Orbost and surrounding community.
We will also be highlighting and acknowledging the powerful role of Meals on Wheels in supporting the nutritional health and social wellbeing of older Australians.
Shirley Aquilina started as a Meals on Wheels Volunteer after the 2019 bushfires that affected Orbost.
She felt she had to give back to her community, and a way of doing this was becoming a volunteer for Orbost Regional Health.
Shirley volunteers once a week and delivers meals to approximately 20 clients within the community.
“Seeing their face filled with brightness just makes it all worth it,” Shirley said.
For Athalie Mason, having the Meals on Wheels service ensures she is eating a nutritious and well-balanced meal which is important to her health.
“I also really look forward to the social interaction I get when the volunteer knocks on my door,” she said.
If you would like more information about becoming a Volunteer at Orbost Regional Health, please contact Community Home Support Services on 5154 6623.