A grant of $4,473 from the Nationals-Liberal Government’s Stronger Communities Programme Round 3 will help the Meals on Wheels Association in Gunnedah to buy new refrigerators, freezers and other small appliances.
The Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton said the much-needed new equipment will be an integral part of the Association’s daily operations helping with the catering and provision of meals for their clients.
“The equipment will ensure fresh and frozen foods to always be on hand for clients in normal and emergency circumstances,” Mr Coulton said. 
“The provision of frozen and fresh food will guarantee that no Meals on Wheels clients in the Gunnedah community will be without meals and caring volunteers. 
“The equipment will improve local community participation through volunteering and also contribute to a more vibrant and more viable community with happy and healthy clients.”
Mr Coulton said that under the programme, incorporated not-for-profit and local government organisations were invited to apply for funding for projects that will contribute to the long term vibrancy and viability of our local areas.
A passionate advocate of the Stronger Communities Programme, Mr Coulton said he was overwhelmed by the community response he received for both Rounds 1 and 2 and now Round 3 from right across the Electorate of Parkes.
“For a long time I felt there was a need for greater support for incorporated not-for-profit and local government organisations to help build and maintain small infrastructure projects that would benefit our local communities,” he said.

Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton with Gunnedah Meals on Wheels' Colleen Fuller.