Looking to give time back to the community, Heather has been volunteering with Freeman Court for almost a year to deliver delicious meals to older people.
Heather Smyth (56) has been a volunteer meal delivery driver at Freeman Court, an independent living facility in Te Awamutu, for almost a year now and has become a much-loved part of the team.
Heather lives just out of Te Awamutu in Rootorangi and had previously worked as a school administrator.
“I always knew Freeman Court was here, but never realised they did meal delivery – and I was just looking for something to do for volunteering.”
Semi-retired, Heather said she was looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity when she stumbled upon the Freeman Court volunteer driver opportunity on the Volunteering Waikato website.
“I’ve always enjoyed meeting older people, and doing this meal delivery helps older people being independent, still.”
Freeman Court’s meal delivery service is for older people who enjoy the independence and comfort of their own home, and would also like to enjoy a delicious hot meal at midday, without having to cook. For Heather, the role fitted perfectly as it gave her an opportunity to meet new people while giving time back to the community.
“It’s just something I want to be doing… it’s important for the community to give, if you have got time.”
While talking about the meals, Heather said the meals are “really good” and people love them. Currently, Freeman is delivering 15-20 meals every day during lunch hours, and is always looking for more volunteers to join the team.
Freeman Court, considered as an essential service during the Covid-19 lockdown, was proud to do contactless delivery of meals while following strict health and safety guidelines by dropping off meals in a box outside the door. Now, under level 1, Heather is thrilled to meet the regulars and new customers and have a chat while delivering the meals.
Freeman Court is a part of Habitat for Humanity Central Region and is a unique and affordable facility that makes independent living a little easier for older people. Up to 42 residents enjoy going about their lives with peace of mind knowing support is there if needed.
To learn more, visit our website www.freemancourt.co.nz, or call us at (07) 871 5260.
For more about Habitat for Humanity Central, visit www.habitatcentral.org.nz or call us at 07 849 0284.
