More funding for Qld Meals on Wheels

The Commonwealth and Queensland governments will provide more than $5 million for the state’s Meals on Wheels services.

The joint initiative was made up of a $3.4 million Commonwealth contribution and $1.8 million from the Bligh Government.

The new funding will subsidise 147 Meals on Wheels delivery services throughout the state.

Each year Meals on Wheels delivers around 2.2 million meals to older Queenslanders, helping them maintain their independence at home.

The Queensland Disability Services Minister, Annastacia Palaszczuk said Meals on Wheels has come along way from its humble beginnings in a backyard shed in Ipswich 50 years ago.

She also praised the volunteers who are the “lifeblood” of the service.

“I encourage anyone who wants to give back to their community and our older Queenslanders to put their hand up and help out this outstanding organisation,” Ms Palazczuk said.

The Federal Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot said Meals on Wheels provided an invaluable service to frail older people and their carers.

“Last year, the Federal and State Governments allocated around $30 million to Meals on Wheels organisations for meal delivery services which provided more than 11 million meals,” she said.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Rudd and Bligh Governments to work together to care for older Queenslanders,” Minister Elliot said.