Canterbury-Bankstown’s Meals on Wheels volunteers are delivering more than just food hampers... they’re now playing a part in protecting the vulnerable against COVID-19.

More than 200 hygiene packs, each containing disinfectant sprays, gels, antibacterial wipes and multipurpose cleaners have been included with Council’s Meals on Wheels deliveries.

Council worked with major retailers, Woolworths and Reckitt, as part of their broader national donation scheme to help prepare and deliver the hygiene packs.

Mayor Khal Asfour said the addition of these packs, during this latest surge of COVID-19 cases across Australia, ensures residents can enjoy peace of mind in being better prepared and protected against the virus.

“Some of these residents are senior citizens or live alone, so this also saves them from having to worry about planning their next shopping trip, with the added bonus of Council’s essential Meals on Wheels service keeping them well fed,” Mayor Asfour said.

“We know people should stay home, so delivering these hygiene packs allows them to have enough supplies to keep them safe and kill germs.”

Meals on Wheels volunteer Graeme Ayling said the response from residents who have received hygiene packs has been wonderful.

“They’re totally appreciative and pleased, but a bit surprised to find Council has gone through the trouble of doing this for them,” he said.

“One lady even said it’s not just a hot meal but we get this as well... and some have told me they’ve really needed this sort of stuff during these times.”

Meals on Wheels is Council’s volunteer-led service which delivers about 55,000 meals a year to those who cannot cater for themselves.

If you would like to become a Meals on Wheels volunteer, visit cb.city/MealsOnWheels