A popular Ashington based community initiative to provide Sunday lunches for vulnerable and isolated people during lockdown has extended its services into North Tyneside.
The Masonic Meals on Wheels Service began at the start of lockdown and has grown in both popularity and need. Under strict social distancing rules, members of masonic lodges attend Ashington Masonic Hall every Sunday to collect freshly cooked meals which are then promptly delivered to those in need. The service is growing week by week with meals being delivered to elderly freemasons and their widows from Morpeth to Blyth and across to Wylam, Ovingham and Throckley. Now additional meals are being gratefully received in Killingworth, North Shields and Forest Hall. Each delivery includes soup and a Sunday roast.
Andrew Millar (90) from Forest Hall was delighted to receive his Sunday Lunch:
“It’s remarkable what the meals on wheels team are doing, volunteering their time to help people like me. It’s not just the food though, it’s seeing a friendly face at the door and having a short chat. I’m really grateful.”
Organised by Freemasons Paul Dunning and Jim Grant, the free “Meals on Wheels” service has received funding totalling £20,000 from the Northumberland Mark Benevolence Fund and Northumberland Freemasons.
“The main purpose of the service is to provide a substantial meal, but we are finding that it’s more about connecting people who perhaps don’t see anyone else during the week and letting them know that others care about them. We are pleased to be providing almost 100 meals every Sunday and we’re looking to grow even more as we get more volunteers to help,” said Paul.
For more information about the scheme contact Paul Dunning on 07590 647681