Celebrating the Heart of Our Community: Volunteers Honoured During National Volunteer Week
Meals on Wheels Central Coast (MOWCC) proudly celebrated National Volunteer Week 2025 by hosting a series of morning teas throughout the week to thank and recognise the incredible volunteers who are at the heart of the organisation.
With a legacy stretching back to 1967, Meals on Wheels Central Coast has become a trusted and beloved service on the coast, supporting over 1,000 clients thanks to the unwavering commitment of more than 170 dedicated volunteers.
These volunteers selflessly contribute over 470 hours each month, delivering over 21,000 meals in their own vehicles and offering vital social connections to some of the region’s most vulnerable senior citizens. Their roles span across several essential services, including Meal Delivery, Community Restaurants and Assisted Shopping programs.
Two-year MOWCC Meal Delivery volunteer Paul Cummings shared his experience, saying, “Coming from a family that relied on the kindness and generosity of others, I’m only too pleased to give something back. To see people smiling is very satisfying and heart-warming.” Meanwhile, ten-year Community Restaurant volunteer Olive Galway reflected, “I started to volunteer when I was feeling a bit lost at home. It was the best thing for me to do. Meeting so many wonderful people and making friends I know I’ll have for life is so rewarding. I feel so useful – I can’t imagine not being able to come in each week, so I will appreciate every day I’m able to volunteer.”
The morning tea events, held at several MOWCC outlets, were filled with laughter, stories and heartfelt appreciation. Staff and clients came together to celebrate and personally thank volunteers for their contributions and were given a small gift and certificate.
“National Volunteer Week is a time to shine a light on the people who are the backbone of our organisation,” said Amy Baulman, Volunteer & Program Coordinator at MOWCC. “Our volunteers don’t just deliver meals – they deliver care, connection and a sense of community. It’s their warmth, compassion and reliability that makes such a difference in the lives of our clients. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them.”
Meals on Wheels Central Coast continues to grow and evolve, the not-for-profit organisation remains deeply grateful for the generosity and heart of its volunteers, who ensure clients are not only nourished with food, but also remain connected and engaged within their community.
For more information about Meals on Wheels Central Coast, please visit www.ccmow.com.au or phone 02 4357 8444.