The Delivered Meals and Volunteer Transport programs needs the help of licensed drivers.

The Delivered Meals program provides a nutritious daily meal, including dessert and soup in winter, to more than 650 frail elderly, or disabled residents of any age, thus helping them to stay independent and living in their own homes for as long as possible. Volunteers deliver the meals from three kitchens located in Chelsea, Moorabbin and Mordialloc respectively.

Volunteers pick up meals at 10am and the delivery route takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete.

Council is seeking volunteers to be available for the Delivered Meals Program to deliver at least one day per week, however any contribution is welcome. Volunteer drivers receive a per KM petrol contribution and are required to undertake a police check on a three yearly basis.

Volunteering for Delivered Meals is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The position allows for friendly interaction with clients and provides a much needed break in the day for isolated older people in the community. Some of our volunteers have enjoyed the experience so much that they have been with us for more than 45 years.

The Volunteer Transport service provides door-to-door transport to medical appointments for eligible clients.

 The Volunteer Transport program operates on weekdays between 9.00 am – 5.00 pm but it is hoped that with the help of more volunteers the service could offer transport assistance to a wider range of important activities, including shopping, local seniors groups, club activities, visiting friends, attending church functions and so on.

Helpful training and support for volunteers in responding to the needs of people with disabilities, older people with mobility issues or who are socially isolated is provided.

Cr Ronke said Council relied on the help of volunteers to keep these essential programs running.

For more information, please call 1300 653 356.