Stories from the Frontline: You’re doing something that has a real and positive impact
The South Dublin County Volunteer Centre, in partnership with South Dublin County Council, is running a campaign called Stories from the Frontline in recognition of all those who volunteered or are still volunteering during COVID-19
Here’s Niall O’Sullivan’s story of volunteering with Meals on Wheels...
My name is Niall and I got involved with Meals on Wheels in the Rathcoole Community Centre about 18 months ago.
Niall O'Sullivan volunteers with Meals on Wheels
The meals are prepared in Peamount Hospital in Newcastle and by all accounts the quality is top class.
I deliver to between 12 and 14 people that reside in the Newcastle, Rathcoole and Saggart areas.
A few of the people I deliver to live alone in remote locations and greatly appreciate the few minutes chat as well as the food.
For these people, this may be the only contact they have all day.
Should it happen that the door is not answered I will report this back to the centre who will contact the person’s relative to ensure all is ok.
I must say here that the local postman plays a similar role.
It was noticeable when Covid-19 came to us back in March how frightened these people became.
This was totally understandable as they were one of the most vulnerable groups and were constantly being bombarded with bad news on the effects this virus could have on them.
They were advised to cocoon, and most were very anxious.
One lady was so afraid that she wouldn’t even go out in her back garden for fresh air and a bit of exercise. I spent a little extra time with such people trying to reassure them that all will be ok, and this thing will pass in time.
I retired from work three years ago and had a bit of spare time so, when I saw the advert looking for volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels I decided to give it a go.
I had heard before from other volunteers in various organisations like St Vincent de Paul, Simon etc. that volunteering is a very rewarding and satisfying experience and I must say that is also the case for me.
You’re doing something that has a real and positive impact on someone else’s life.
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