Lord Mayor Cllr. Joe Kavanagh officially launched the Cara Meals on Wheels Community Van on 5 May 2021. The Cara Van is a collaboration between Cork City Council, the HSE, and Churchfield Community Trust who have partnered with three local Meals on Wheels groups to deliver meals to vulnerable members of the community across the North West of the City.
Cork City Council provided funding to purchase the van through the Community Enhancement Programme which is managed by the Local Community Development Committee and RAPID. The project is managed by Churchfield Community Trust and works in a close partnership with St. Mary’s Senior Citizens Meals on Wheels, Gurranbraher Meals on Wheels and Farranree Community Association Meals on Wheels.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Joe Kavanagh said: “Covid-19 highlighted the key role played by the Meals on Wheels services across the city, the essential link provided by Meals on Wheels goes far beyond the hot meal that is delivered. Strengthening and supporting this essential service through the Cara Van is a fantastic collaboration.”
Sandra O’Meara, Rapid Coordinator, Cork City Council, was delighted to develop this project in partnership with the community work department in the HSE, saying “The Cara Van is further enhancing the fantastic work done by meals on wheels groups, to date it is delivering 2,576 meals per month, it is a great opportunity to support this invaluable service.”
Theresa McCarthy Community Worker, HSE, said: “The Community Work Department have a great relationship with the Meals on Wheels services across the city, we know the great value they provide to so many across the city, I was delighted we could provide funding towards running costs and set up of this new and exciting service.”
Paul O’Donnell, Manager of Churchfield Community Trust said: “I’m delighted that Churchfield Community Trust is a partner in this new initiative, further embedding the project into the community.”
