MEALS ON WHEELS AUSTRALIA WELCOMES FEDERAL FUNDING INITIATIVE
Meals on Wheels Australia has welcomed today's announcement by the Federal Government of a $59.3 million funding package in support of meal delivery services.
The announcement comes as Meals on Wheels services across Australia are facing sharp increases in demand from metropolitan and regional communities hit hard by social restrictions and the economic fall-out from the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Our services across Australia are facing enormous demand due to Covid-19," Meals on Wheels Australia President, Sharyn Broer said.
"Our incredible volunteers and staff are stretched as more people seek our services every single day.
"Many of our customers and our volunteers are over 70 years of age and self-isolating.
"This is a very challenging time for so many people right across Australia.
"Providing a nutritious meal and a wellbeing check has never been so important.
"We thank the Federal Government for taking this pro-active approach in support of Australians in need.
"It will help services like Meals on Wheels continue to ensure isolated and vulnerable Australians don't go hungry."
Under the Federal Government's package, $50 million will go towards funding meals for Australians in need while $9.3 million will be used to buy emergency food supplies boxes.
Meanwhile Meals on Wheels branches and kitchens across Australia are calling for more community-minded people to volunteer.
"Whether it's in the office, the kitchen or as a delivery driver we're hoping to hear particularly from younger Australians keen to lend a hand," Ms Broer said.
"It can be just a few hours a week or fortnight but you'll be making a huge difference to someone's life and making new friends along the way."
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