Member Article

Call from Harrogate Nrighbours to encourage more volunteers to deliver vital service

In a bid to raise awareness of the vital role meals on wheels plays in the local area, not-for-profit care provider, Harrogate Neighbours has launched a heart-warming campaign to attract more volunteers.

Featured in the video campaign is Doris, a 72-year-old lady living with dementia who represents many women and men who rely heavily on the meals delivered by a team of local volunteers.

Like Doris, social isolation is a common issue felt by many older people. An aging population means that for people like Doris, a hot, nutritious meal delivered to her door by a friendly face is often the highlight of her day.

Whilst the meals on wheels service requires greater government funding to support older and vulnerable people living within the community, Harrogate Neighbours Meals on Wheels Delivered by Angels is calling out for more volunteers to maintain the much-needed service.

Sue Cawthray, CEO of Harrogate Neighbours said, “There is a huge demand for the service, but unfortunately not enough volunteers to help deliver the meals.

“We prepare, pack and deliver 150 meals a day, but our waiting list is growing and the need for volunteers has never been more crucial.

“We are supporting an aging population and the service is a lifeline for older and vulnerable people living in our community, and our service is more than just a meal it’s that well-being check too. We’d love to hear form anyone who has a spare hour a week or fortnight to help us ensure we can continue to provide this most valuable service.” Marcus Black, CEO of Spirit of Harrogate said, “We are delighted to support Harrogate Neighbours with its delivery of meals to the elderly and vulnerable in the Harrogate area.

“As well as contributing to our local community, our contribution helps with team building and staff welfare. The team also relish the opportunity to catch up with their regulars on a weekly basis.”

Long-standing volunteer, 83-year-old Janet added, “Volunteering with the food angels is one of the most rewarding jobs – I’ve been involved for eight years and long may it continue.

“It’s nice to give something back and it’s always very heartwarming to see my regular clients – I might be the only person they see all day.”

As the population ages and people live longer, demand for the service is growing. Now in its 11th year, Harrogate Neighbours Meals on Wheels Delivered by Angels is calling out to more volunteers to join the force and deliver even more meals to people in the Yorkshire area in need of the service.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Samara Ullmann .