Whitehorse and Ballarat local councils are set to stop delivering Meals on Wheels from 1 July 2023, which has prompted the Government to launch a pilot program for Newcastle and Queensland Meals on Wheels to establish new outlets in these Victorian areas.
Across the two council areas, Meals on Wheels is expected to provide more than 150,000 meals annually, with the assistance of local volunteers.
Meals on Wheels is well known for its healthy meals, and its volunteers, who take time to chat with older people as they deliver the food. The service helps to reduce social isolation, thereby helping older people to remain living in their homes for longer.
The $2.2 million pilot is being funded through the Federal Government’s FUTURE FIT initiative, which was aimed at improving the viability and capability of Meals on Wheels.
Aged Care Minister Anika Wells said, “Meals on Wheels staff and volunteers provide more than just a meal. Every day they are out in local communities, connecting with older people, and I thank them for their dedication.”
A statement from Meals on Wheels Newcastle said, “We welcome the continued support of the Australian Government to help more older people live independently and comfortably in their own homes.
“We deliver a world class service with the help of the local community – without our local volunteers, we are nothing."
