Volunteering for a day to deliver Meals on Wheels (through the Victorian Order of Nurses) offers a different perspective, says Centre Wellington Mayor Joanne Ross-Zuj.
On March 25, the mayor thanked members of council who, along with herself and local radio personality Vic Folliott, assisted last week in the delivery of meals to local residents.
She said the participation of councillors in the deliveries on March 21, “honoured those people who do this on a daily basis.”
Ross-Zuj said, “It is amazing. The meals come down from Mount Forest (prior to delivery).”
She said there are a number of people in the community who rely on the service “and they were all so gracious when we came to the door to deliver the meals. It was just heartwarming”
Ross-Zuj was impressed with the dedication of drivers and volunteers on a daily basis.
“It is a really good program,” she said.
She added the service was really well done, “and it was good for us to be part of it … even if it was just for one day to see the great work they do.”
Councillor Walt Visser, who also volunteered that day, quipped the food recipients “wouldn’t share (with him).” He also noted that John Carter, a longtime volunteer for Meals on Wheels, is now a recipient.
Meals on Wheels is just one program offered through the VON to enable seniors to live a vibrant, healthy and satisfying life in their own homes and in the community.
Officials say access to a well-balanced diet is important to general well-being at any age, but “essential to the health and autonomy” of seniors maintaining their home and standard of living.
