DEDICATED new and regular volunteers have ensured a Riverland Meals on Wheels branch is able to continue helping its surrounding community.
Meals on Wheels Renmark has recently seen a number of new volunteers join the organisation, filling in for those who were at high-risk of contracting COVID-19.
However, Meals on Wheels Renmark kitchen supervisor Rozz Dyer said regular volunteers who had been required to isolate during the pandemic were already eager to return.
“They were advised by Meals on Wheels that in that age group you’re in a higher risk bracket and that it’s advisable to stay home,” Mrs Dyer said.
“But for those who felt they really wanted to continue, they could. So we had a few that stayed with us and the rest have taken that opportunity to have a break.
“But we’ve had a few of them actually ringing to see when they are likely to be able to come back, which is positive.
“They really are diehards and they go until they can’t do it anymore.”
Mrs Dyer said Riverlanders whose work had been affected by coronavirus were able to have a positive effect on the community through volunteering.
“I’m only too happy to have them while they are here,”
she said.
“I think we’ll see some of the new ones have to return to work, but that’s the way it goes.”
Mrs Dyer said impacts of the COVID-19 emergency further highlighted the importance of Meals on Wheels volunteers for elderly and high-risk members of the community.
“The one thing that was noticeable was the uptake we got from new clients,” she said.
“Where some might have a shopping day with a carer, or other community services that were provided, that’s had to stop.
“We saw an increase in our meals, so that shows there’s people out there who need the service.”