Footballers Kayne Ramsey, George Horbury and Lewis Richards as well as first team manager Simon Weaver and chief executive Sarah Barry spent the morning at The Cuttings, Harrogate Neighbours’ extra care scheme learning about the vital service which sees over 100 meals prepared and delivered into the community every single day.
Sue Cawthray, chief executive of Harrogate Neighbours and chair of the National Association of Care Catering (NACC), said: “Meals on Wheels Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of the service, say thank you to the volunteers, who without, the service would not be possible and do our bit here in Yorkshire to encourage more funding to ensure the sustainability of such a vital service.
“Due to the rising cost of living, many people are going to have to choose between eating or heating and that’s just not right. Malnutrition in older people is on the rise, our service supports those at risk, protects the NHS and allows our team to provide not only hot food, but a daily ‘check-in’ which is vital to people’s wellbeing.”
The meals on wheels requires greater Government funding to support older and vulnerable people living within the community, who without the dedicated volunteers who run the service would not receive a nutritionally balanced, hot daily meal.
Speaking on behalf of the club, Barry added: “Sue and her team are doing a fantastic job of tackling the issues facing this vital service. We were honored to be able to see first-hand how the service works and how important it is for so many vulnerable people living within our community.
“The players really enjoyed seeing the meals being prepped, meeting the volunteers and joining them on their deliveries – the service users were all very excited to see Simon and the players at their door and hope our involvement helps raise awareness for this vitally important campaign.”