Westport Meals on Wheels spreads some festive cheer

While many of us are preparing breakfast, Meals on Wheels Westport are already beginning preparations for dinner. From 7.30am, staff and volunteers are preparing meals that will be delivered to elderly and vulnerable people across the town.

Meals on Wheels manager Claire Purton says the organisation’s role has evolved significantly over the last number of years. While traditionally associated with older residents, the service now supports a broader range of people.

“We like to cover a different range of people,” she said. “Initially, it would have been for the elderly of the community, but I am aware of people with mental health issues who may need nutrition, but aren’t able to cook for themselves. We’re here for the elderly and the vulnerable community members.”

Increased demand

Demand for the service has increased significantly since the Covid-19 pandemic. Claire described that period as 'a turning point'.

“Demand has most certainly gone up since Covid. It was like a tidal wave of people looking for our services,” she said. “It was really an awful time, but luckily, people from businesses that were closed came looking to help. Because of that, we were able to reach places we never had before.”

Currently, Meals on Wheels Westport supports around 75 clients each month, delivering between 1,100 and 1,300 meals. The service operates on a tightly organised schedule, with Mondays particularly busy as meals are prepared for both Monday and Tuesday deliveries. Fridays are the most intensive, with food prepared for the entire weekend.

In addition to home deliveries, Meals on Wheels also provides a sit-down lunch service twice a week.

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Social interaction

Around 15 people attend lunch each Wednesday and Friday, offering not just a delicious meal but also a chance for social interaction.

Sharon Kilcawley, kitchen manager at Meals on Wheels, Westport, says she finds her work very rewarding.

“It’s very rewarding for us because a lot of people are very lonely. You can see mood changes and spirits lifted. They really enjoy the craic of the lunches on Wednesday and Friday. It gets them out of the house and gives them a purpose.”

At Christmas, the service takes on added significance. This year, Meals on Wheels Westport delivered Christmas dinners to between 18 and 20 people who may be spending Christmas alone.

“It suits some people to be alone at Christmas, and other people have no choice,” Claire said. “It can be very lonely, but sending them some joy can make it a bit better.”

Extra care is taken with Christmas deliveries, with small additions like chocolates and mince pies included alongside the meal to make the day feel special. “We’re not just presenting them with their dinner,” she said. “We’re doing the best we can to send some joy out to them.”

'On cloud nine'

The impact of that effort is felt by both recipients and volunteers alike. “The drivers are on cloud nine when they come back, and so are the people receiving the meals,” Claire added. “Everybody deserves to sit down and have their Christmas dinner.”

Running the service costs approximately €125,000 per year. While funding of around €34,000 from the HSE has provided essential support, a significant portion of Meals on Wheels Westport’s funding comes from its charity shop, which raised approximately €53,000 in 2024. The shop is run entirely by volunteers.

“We really appreciate any donations we get,” Claire said. “And if anyone is even considering volunteering, just come in for a chat.”

For more information see their Facebook page here or pop into the charity shop which is located on near the Fairgreen across the Hoban's Centra.