Massive response to appeal for help from Meals on Wheels
MORE than 100 people responded to an appeal by Meals on Wheels in Bray for extra volunteers.
‘ We are very grateful for the huge response in our search for extra volunteers We have had very kind offers from chefs, kitchen help and drivers,’ said spokeswoman Anne O’Leary, who said that they now have enough people on board.
She said that they have already received requests from people in need and encouraged anyone else, particularly anyone in isolation, to get in touch.
‘ We are ramping up our existing service to provide increased capacity to the elderly in Bray who are in isolation or in need of our service during these extraordinary times,’ said Anne
She said they currently deliver meals every Tuesday and Thursday and are preparing to offer the service in the coming weeks on a Saturday also.
Bray Meals on Wheels delivers over a 1000 meals per month and has done since 1966 for a nominal charge of €3.50 for hot lunch and dessert.
‘ We are very proud of our amazing team who work hard every week and all on a voluntary basis,’ said Anne.
Bray Senior Services Centre operates Meals On Wheels and is currently based in Cedar Estate, Killarney road, Bray.
‘ We will be moving to our new premises on the Killarney Road as soon as is possible but obviously after the Covid-19 difficulties are over,’ said Anne.
She said that all of the volunteers take all the health and safety precautions available to them and it is an area they take very seriously.
‘For example, our driver policy includes all drivers wearing gloves and using hand sanitizers which they have been supplied with.
Our drivers will not enter the house of the recipient but go only as far as the door and hand over the meal in sealed containers. We work closely with the HSE and many of our referrals come from them.’ Anyone in need of the service can email info@bofaseniorcitizens.ie, or ring on Tuesdays or Thursdays between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on 01 2867835.