By MIKE TZOUNIS
MAX White says Meals on Wheels has given him the opportunity to contribute to his community.
The 66-year-old Dandenong man has been a volunteer for the organisation for about a year.
It celebrated the 60th national Meals on Wheels Day on 28 August.
During his 30 years in the community Mr White had come across many people who didn’t have enough money to buy food and other basics.
So after retiring he decided to step up and make a difference in people’s lives.
Meals on Wheels provided him with an opportunity to help other people and he wants to make the most of it.
“I’m actually a newcomer in comparison to other people currently volunteering here,” Mr White said.
“I’ve loved every minute of it.
“My wife and I have been living in Dandenong for about 30 years and we have noticed many changes through the years in the area’s demographics.
“We feel very happy that Dandenong has been a multicultural community for many years but we also want to help our fellow residents who are less fortunate and have trouble covering their basic needs, such as food.”
Mr White has a double role within the organisation – twice a week he delivers meals around the City of Greater Dandenong and he also spends one morning each week controlling traffic at the distribution warehouse in Keysborough.
“It is a very noble cause and it is wholeheartedly fulfilling,” he said.
“Sometimes, I’m the only person some of these people see during the day, and people really appreciate what we do here.
“It is also good for community bonding purposes as it brings the social element into play.”
Mr White can’t see himself leaving the program any time soon.
“I can safely say that while I live in Dandenong, I’ll be a part of the program,” he said.
He strongly recommends other people join the program.
For more information call Meals on Wheels on 8558 7902 or visit www.mealsvictoria.org.au.
