Meals on Wheels thanks Council volunteers

Published: 04 Feb 2021 10:46am

Wagga Wagga Meals on Wheels has recognised the contribution of council staff who volunteered to assist the organisation in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Over 9 weeks from early April 2020, the 5 volunteers took turns delivering food to Meals on Wheels clients.

On Monday, they were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from Wagga Wagga Meals on Wheels President John Craig.

“Most of our regular delivery volunteers were aged over 70 and could no longer do the deliveries,” Mr Craig said.

“Through collaboration with Council and the very generous offers from staff to do volunteer work in the community, we were able to continue providing the service.

“It was a fantastic operation, not only from the point of view of us having people there, but I think it also gave you [the volunteers] a new perspective on the community in which you live so we hope that you enjoyed it as well.”

The volunteers who helped Meals on Wheels were among 128 Council staff who put their hands up to help local welfare agencies.

Vegetation Management Officer Matthew McGrath said the period gave Council staff another opportunity to serve the community.

“It was a different experience and gave me a bit more awareness and compassion for the community as well,” Mr McGrath said.

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM said he was proud of the response of Council staff.

“When the call went out to Council staff members to assist welfare agencies during the COVID-19 crisis last year, 128 quickly offered to help out,” Cr Conkey said.

“I’m proud of Council staff for stepping up to help our incredible community service agencies and help ensure food security for those in need during the COVID-19 shutdown.”