Meals on Wheels services will continue to be delivered throughout the state, with the State Government extending funding for another two years.
Minister for Communities and Housing, Hon Leeanne Enoch said a $1.3 million funding extension provided certainty for organisations delivering Meals on Wheels services throughout Queensland.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s ongoing support of the delivery of vital community services like Meals on Wheels is another example of our commitment to delivering even better services right across the state.
“This ongoing funding contribution to Meals on Wheels will be welcome news for the many Queenslanders who rely on this important service in their community,” Ms Enoch said.
“Meals on Wheels is well-established, and delivered by a range of providers, including in many remote and regional areas across the state.
“This funding is good news for those being supported by the program and I’m delighted that funding will continue.”
The State Government supports Meals on Wheels services to provide meals to vulnerable Queenslanders, helping them to live independently in their homes and stay connected in their communities.
Importantly, the service delivers more than just meals, providing clients with social interaction and health and well-being checks they might not have otherwise had.
Meals on Wheels Queensland Chief Executive Evan Hill said with the support of the Queensland Government, Meals on Wheels is now supporting more than 19,000 Queenslanders, providing 2.6 million nourishing meals with the incredible contribution of more than 7,000 volunteers in the community.
“Meals on Wheels is more than a meal,” Mr Hill said.
“We provide peace of mind and social connection with every delivery we make.
“Our commitment to combatting loneliness and social isolation is evident each and every day.
“Our volunteers are having a chat, checking on how they are going, making sure they are safe.
“Our Let’s Do Lunch program extends that where a volunteer can stay and have lunch with a client.
“It builds that social connection and makes people know they are valued and appreciated by their community.
“It takes a community to care and Meals on Wheels embodies that spirit.”
Ms Enoch said the State Government is committed to funding high-quality community services for Queenslanders such as seniors, people with disability, families and young people.
“In the 2022-23 State Budget, the Queensland Government committed an additional $125.6 million over four years to increase the delivery of vital community and social services across the state,” she said.
“Community services, such as the Meals on Wheels service, provide valuable supports to the Queenslanders who use them.”
