Beaudesert Meals on Wheels is in urgent need of volunteers to provide its much needed delivery services.
Around 60 per cent of its drivers stopped doing deliveries during the Coronavirus pandemic – with many unable to resume – and it is urgently in need of up to 15 new volunteers.
Beaudesert Meals on Wheels has been servicing the Beaudesert community and surrounding districts since 1982. Last year it delivered some 15,000 meal packages.
Meals are delivered each Monday, Wednesday and Friday excluding public holidays, and the volunteering positions are perfect for people who have a few hours in the mornings on weekdays.
Deliveries are provided to clients in Kerry, Boyland, Cedar Grove, Canungra, Tamborine and Gleneagle.
Full-time musicians Linda and Rick Wilson have been volunteers since 2020.
“When Covid hit, we were unable to work and wanted to give something back to the community, so we became Meals on Wheels volunteers,” said Rick.
“As Covid eased and we went back to performing in public again we continued as volunteers. We love doing it.”
“It’s a fulfilling service and gives us much personal satisfaction,” added Linda.
“You meet so many different people, many with interesting pursuits.”
Both agree with Meals on Wheels coordinator Sue Weymouth that the job entails more than simply delivering meals.
“Our volunteers keep a caring eye on their clients’ welfare and are able to advise us of any concerns that they might have,” said Sue.
“As a volunteer, you choose how often you provide assistance – usually only once a month.
“You will need to use your own car, which must be maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition. Current full comprehensive insurance is a requirement.”
Meals on Wheels is supported by funding from the Commonwealth Government, but as a not-for-profit organisation it relies on the ongoing commitment of volunteers to deliver meals to clients.
Anyone wishing to work as a Meals on Wheels volunteer can contact Sue Weymouth on 0407 395 838 or email beaudesertmow@gmail.com.
