FROM the establishment of Muswellbrook Meals on Wheels, to its dissolution, the group was helping community members in need.
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After decades of taking hot meals to clients’ doors, the local group will soon cease to exist – but, not before helping the elderly one last time.
This week, the team handed over their remaining funds to Calvary, who are raising money to buy a bus.
The vehicle would remain at the new facility for the purpose of taking residents to outings in the shire.
The Muswellbrook Meals on Wheels journey has been full of highs and lows.
In 1981, there was a decline in meals served, with 123 delivered per week.
“Volunteers were concerned [about] clients not receiving the social interaction of a visit as hot meals were to be delivered quickly,” secretary Wilma Holmes said.
Volunteers began visiting clients and offering home library services.
In 1983 to 1984, there was an average of 153 meals delivered each week – reaching almost 8000.
“Weekend deliveries started and service clubs took up the deliveries at weekends,” Mrs Holmes said.
The group began to flourish and there were discussions in the mid 1980s about buying a car for deliveries.
At this stage, the Muswellbrook service was one of seven of its kind in NSW, and delivered 10,589 meals in 1984/1985. In 2000, the group handed administration of grants to Hunter Integrated Care, now intregatedliving.
“A consortium was set up to keep the committee advised but this did not last,” Ms Holmes said.
“[There was] a downturn in the committee as members became older and unable to attend meetings.
“The service became no longer viable.”
Despite the loss of Meals on Wheels, Calvary general manager Bronwyn Wilkinson said the money was greatly appreciated.
Katy McGill, Wilma Holmes, Bruce James, Christine Cavanagh, Helen Medhurst and Marion Philpott were the only remaining members when the group finished, and Valerie McDonald previously retired.
Those interested in donating toward the Calvary vehicle are encouraged to contact 6542 4800.