City of Parramatta rangers and parking officers have taken on a vital new role during lockdown, delivering Meals on Wheels to vulnerable residents across the Local Government Area.

Thirteen rangers and parking officers have stepped in to help with the critical community service after volunteer numbers decreased due to the lockdown.

“The current restrictions have presented many challenges for all of us, but they have been especially hard for our most vulnerable residents,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said.

“Council is doing what it can to support the community through this difficult period, whether it’s through financial relief or providing extra support services.

“Rangers and parking officers can get a bad rap, but their role is to look after the community, and that’s exactly what they’re doing here. I’d like to thank them for helping to ensure our crucial Meals on Wheels service can continue uninterrupted, despite the challenging circumstances.”

Under the leadership of COVID marshal Yvette Gray, who is also a Council parking officer, the team of rangers is helping to deliver nearly 3000 meals to residents each month.

“It’s been wonderful to be able to serve our community during this difficult time. In some cases, we might be the only person our Meals on Wheels recipients have face-to-face contact with all week. It’s a joy to be able to brighten someone’s day while providing a vital service – and they get just as much joy from seeing us,” Ms Gray said.

Also among the team are brothers Brad and Josh Moncaster, who are both parking officers. The pair, who also delivered Meals on Wheels during last year’s lockdown, said they enjoy being able to help the community in a different way.

“It’s really great to be able to help people who need it – I can see how appreciative they are,” Brad said.

Council is also helping to provide other valuable food services to the community, including supporting OzHarvest Hamper Hubs in Telopea and Granville.

It recently launched its Help a Neighbour calling cards to encourage neighbours to safely check in on each other during lockdown, along with a $2.9 million support package for residents and businesses.

For more information about Council’s COVID response, visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au