‘Marked increase’ in demand and enquiries for Meals on Wheels in Duhallow this week
THERE’S been a ‘marked increase’ this week in the number of people seeking and expressing an interest in receiving a daily delivery of meals on wheels in Duhallow.
According to Orlaith Tomkins of the IRD Duhallow Meals on Wheels Service, there’s been a 20 per cent increase in deliveries in the past week with 130 homes now signed up for the service.
In meal terms, that’s approaching 200 people who are getting a lunch and desert dropped to their doors by the Newmarket based operation.
“I’ve seen a marked increase in people calling and looking for meals since Tuesday this week,” Orlaith told The Corkman on Wednesday. “And since the new restrictions were announced on Tuesday, from that.
“I’d say there’s a 20 per cent increase in meal deliveries. At the start of this I think people bought a lot of shopping but now they’re hunkering down in their homes to sit this out.”
There’s 23 people now working on preparing the food at the IRD base in Newmarket where COVID-19 protocol is being observed to protect workers and customers. The standard of hygiene observed is at its usual high standard and meets all the requirements in terms of hand washing, social distance and sanitising.
While the service is designed for senior citizens, others who might be on the routes being taken by the six vans could also avail of the service. The rate for senior citizens is €7.50 for a dinner and desert while the it’s picking up rate for others would be higher and the priority will always be the senior citizens.
The van drivers, who have their own supply of hand sanitiser and gloves, leave a bag containing the food at a pre-arranged location on the door or a bucket or some such. All payments in cash are in envelopes or, more frequently, payments are by card over the phone.
“If people are looking for the service, they should get in touch with us at 029 76375 and make sure to give us your Eircode as that helps with the deliveries,” said Orlaith.
The menu changes daily. Wednesday’s meal was roast pork, apple sauce and stuffing with potatoes and vegetables to be followed by apple crumble and custard. Food preferences and dietary requirements can also be accommodated.