The team at Narrandera Meals on Wheels have expanded to provide services beyond the town and throughout NSW.

Narrandera Meals on Wheels coordinator Sonia Hammer is overseeing the supply of frozen meals to other food providing services in Leeton, Griffith, Hillston, Temora, Young, Albury, The Rock, Henty and Holbrook.

“We have been operating as a distribution centre for services all over New South Wales. We have even been servicing Wentworth in south-west NSW,” Mrs Hammer said.

“We have a substantial freezer and a backup freezer both being used at full capacity to keep up with demand.”

Earlier in the year, COVID-19 led to increased uptake of the service locally and the demand has continued throughout the year.

“Because of increase in demand for our service, we have introduced new food suppliers and have had to increase our staff,” Mrs Hammer said.

“We have expanded our menu and offer a selection of over 80 main meals, giving our clients much more choice.

“We have been operating using contactless deliveries, but we make sure to wave to our clients through the door.

“With COVID comes isolation and loneliness and our staff and volunteers are extremely supportive and go above and beyond in providing the service.

“We maintain regular communication to ensure everything is OK and our clients are getting what they need.”

Narrandera Meals on Wheels have received an influx of support from local council, local businesses and individuals.

“Without volunteers, this service wouldn’t exist. Everyone has been working as a team to ensure clients have the support they need,” Mrs Hammer said.

“We have also had lots of donations, including toilet paper, sanitiser, anti-bacterial spray, milk and bread, thanks to many local businesses.

“We don’t get a lot of traction from our older clients through social media, however we are able to reach family members who may live out of town and are interested in the service for their relatives.

“Our clients like the service because of its flexibility, not everyone gets meals every week.”

New South Wales Meals on Wheels offer various campaigns to engage their clientele.

“At the moment, NSW Meals on Wheels are asking for people to share a piece of life advice,” Mrs Hammer said.

For more information about Narrandera Meals on Wheels or the NSW Meals on Wheels campaigns refer to Narrandera Meals on Wheels Facebook page.