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The local "heroes" of the Meals on Wheels services will step into the national spotlight, as their enormous contribution in their local communities is marked on National Meals on Wheels Day.
This annual celebration, on Wednesday, August 28, recognises the work of the organisation's more than 35,000 volunteers in NSW.
In the course of a year, volunteers deliver over 4.5 million meals to more than 10,500 meal recipients across the state in cities, regional and rural areas.
Meals on Wheels is really 'more than just a meal'. Support from local Meals on Wheels services makes a real difference in improving health outcomes while reducing health and aged care costs.
As well as delivering tasty and nourishing meals that are designed to meet the nutritional needs of older people, Meals on Wheels volunteers bring a daily dose of companionship and human connection, and peace of mind for clients and their families.
Eating well helps people to age well. Each year, more than 100,000 older Australians are supported to eat well by delivered meal programs such as Meals on Wheels, which is a proven, effective solution that provides benefits to the consumer, health and aged care systems.
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"Our volunteers are the backbone of Meals on Wheels," Les MacDonald, CEO of Meals on Wheels NSW said. "They assist us to nourish communities both nutritionally and socially on a daily basis, and they form part of one of the most gratifying volunteer programs in the world.
"We actively encourage wellness and choice, as living at home independently is precious. We have assisted generations of Australians in NSW since 1957 and will continue to do so for many more."
The economic value of the Meals on Wheels service is in excess of $350 million per year. While services receive some government funding, they could not operate without volunteers to keep costs down and make meals affordable for clients.
Clients can self-refer to Meals on Wheels if they believe they may benefit from the service or they can be referred, for example by a health practitioner or family member.
Meals on Wheels is always looking for new volunteers to contribute just a few hours a fortnight. A simple visit to nswmealsonwheels.org.au can put people in touch with Meals on Wheels locally.