Behind every meal delivered by Meals on Wheels, there’s a dedicated volunteer and a genuine smile.
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) is proud to recognise the unwavering commitment of its volunteers who not only nourish the community but also enrich their own lives through service.
Meals on Wheels plays a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of over 200,000 older Australians, including more than 50 clients across East Gippsland every weekday.
This means hundreds of meals delivered weekly by over 130 dedicated volunteers who generously give their time in the Lakes Entrance, Bairnsdale and Paynesville areas.
For GLCH’s clients, it’s more than just receiving a nutritious meal – it’s the warmth of a caring community member stopping by.
For volunteers, it’s a meaningful connection and the chance to make a difference with a smile.
Each delivery is not only an opportunity to provide nourishment but also a moment to check in and catch up.
In Bairnsdale, Judith and her husband Steve are regular Meals on Wheels volunteers.
Every fortnight, or sometimes several times a week, they hop into their SUV, collect insulated meal bags from Bairnsdale Regional Health Service and spend just over an hour delivering to clients.
Judith believes that Meals on Wheels is a valuable community resource that fosters strong relationships and social connections.
While welfare checks are occasionally needed, she finds that clients are almost always delighted to see them.
“It feels good to give back to the community,” Judith said.
“One day, we might be in that position ourselves, needing someone to deliver meals to us. This service is about more than just food; it’s about making connections and ensuring that people who may not have family nearby have someone to say hello to.”
Though the delivery visits may be brief, the bonds formed between clients and volunteers create a lasting sense of safety, comfort, and reassurance. Volunteers consistently share that they gain more than they give.
GLCH is always seeking individuals or businesses willing to donate just a few hours of their time to deliver meals. Volunteering is flexible – you can help as often as suits your schedule, whether it’s weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.
