Half century of service by Offaly Meals on Wheels group celebrated

To celebrate this outstanding achievement, last week there was a gathering of past and present volunteer drivers and helpers in the Bridge House.
The chairperson of the current committee, Marie Conway welcomed all those in attendance both current and past drivers, Fr. Joe Campbell, Carmel and Sheila who represented the Catering Staff in Riada House, Jimmy Todd HSE and Deirdre Fox, Offaly Volunteers Centre. 

She welcomed Siobhan Arnold representing the Tullamore Credit Union and thanked them for their very generous donation towards funding of the 50th Anniversary Celebration. Particular thanks were extended to the Catering Staff in Riada House who prepare the meals, sort them and have them ready for collection without fail.
The first meeting of Tullamore Meals on Wheels was held on 19th March 1974 at the bequest of the late Sr. Celestine of the then County Home, (now Riada House).

Present at that first meeting were Noel O'Brien and Doreen McInenery, both of whom attended the event in the Bridge House and were called upon to cut the Birthday Cake.

The first meals were delivered in May 1974 and so Tullamore Meals on Wheels was born.
Shortly after this, a very young Doreen Corroon joined as a volunteer and to this day, Doreen is not only still a driver but is also an active committee member.
Since 1974  Tullamore Meals on Wheels has evolved and grown. As the population increased so too has the number of people who for a variety of reasons are not able to produce a healthy, nourishing meal  for themselves.

Today the  organization has approximately 95 drivers and delivers to between 60-70 people per day. Marie complimented the wonderful team of volunteers without whom the organisation could not survive.
While Marie, spoke about the current time, Doreen McInenery spoke about the early days of Meals on Wheels, how meals were served in aluminum dishes that predated stainless steel and Health and Safety standards of today.

She also spoke about the role of the then Transport Manager, Noel O'Brien, in pre mobile and post code era. Pat Sangster spoke about delivering meals in 2024 and how important the personal contact is to the recipients.

Volunteer drivers are always welcome - if interested please contact Marie 087 2941858 or Catherine 087 2828070