Across the country almost 700 Meal on Wheels (MOW) services celebrated a 60 year milestone since the service began in Australia for National Meals on Wheels Day (August 27).

MOW at CareWays began servicing the Illawarra 25 years ago and have expanded to deliver 50,000 meals per annum to 424 clients from Helensburgh to Foxground. Among those that work for CareWays, MOW is supported by 106 volunteers who give up their time to deliver meals.

Community Care co-ordinator at CareWays Leanne Crilly said the day drew attention the role of the service within the community.

“It’s a celebration of just how long the services has been going and how needed it is,” Ms Crilly said.

“The whole community benefit and the volunteers generously donate their time. We couldn’t do it without them.

“It’s a real celebration of all things good about delivery and having a service in the region that is for those in the community who really need it.”

Operations manager Michael Szafraniec said the philosophy of MOW as ‘More than just a meal’ implements a “client centred” approach.

“We don’t’ just deliver a meal. A client’s welfare is paramount to our service. In a way its case management and for some clients it’s the only contact they have in a day,” he said.

 “We deliver to a range of people from frail aged, people with a disability and the vulnerable members of society. We also provide food that is culturally appropriate, meets individual medical requirements and is nutritional based on University of Wollongong study’s to suit a whole range of dietary requirements.”

For more information on the service call 1300 307 902.