NEWPORT resident Barry Bates has been a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for over 15 years.

Meals on Wheels provides regular meals for elderly and disabled residents who are unable to prepare their own.

The delivery of Meals on Wheels in the former City of Williamstown dates back to the early 1960s.

In Altona, deliveries of Meals on Wheels dates back at least 40 years.

Hobsons Bay City Council is calling for volunteers who can spare a few hours a week for the service.

“While the council would welcome any number of volunteers to help deliver this essential service to some of our most vulnerable residents, we presently require four volunteers to cover our vacant rounds,” director Community Services Peter Hunt said.

Mr Bates said winter was a hard time for Meals on Wheels to find volunteers, but despite the cold he gets a lot out of the service and enjoys giving back to the community.

“I encourage everyone to volunteer, you meet some great, interesting people and form fast friendships with not only the people you deliver to, but also the other volunteers and the council staff,” Mr Bates said.

“The people we deliver the meals to say how lucky they are we are there to help them, but I say that I am the lucky one because I can. They are all great people who deserve the chance to stay at home for as long as possible.”

The mayor of Hobsons Bay, councillor Bill Tehan, said Meals on Wheels is a vital community service.

“The Meals on Wheels service is essential in helping over 350 frail aged and disabled residents stay healthy and happy in their own surroundings.

“As a volunteer, you would assist clients to overcome social isolation and monitor their wellbeing and safety. You would gain personal satisfaction in helping others, build friendships and increase your sense of community,” Mr Tehan said.

Meals on Wheels deliver 1300 meals to 360 residents each week - with just 65 volunteers.

“I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the volunteers who presently help deliver this service, their dedication to assisting others leads by example and is always greatly appreciated,” Mr Tehan said.

Volunteers are needed to deliver meals once a week between Monday and Friday, for one to two hours between 9.30am and noon.

Full training is provided and fuel is reimbursed. Contact Hobsons Bay City Council on 9932 1000 for more information.