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The provision of a third van, in July, 1960, enabled the meals service
to be extended to certain areas of the City not adequately covered at
that time, and in which there was a need for meals. It is pleasing to
note that the provision of this third van has enabled the service to be
brought to many more old people in Westminster.
A total of 19,626 meals were delivered during 1962, a slight decrease
on the number delivered during the previous year. This was expected,
as some of the disabled old people who now take their mid-day meal at
the Day Club at Sherborne House (referred to in the preceding section)
were previously in receipt of meals through the Mobile Meals Service.
This service is dependent on the help of a small band of willing
volunteers who turn out regularly, whatever the weather, to assist in
delivering meals to the old people in their homes. The invaluable service
rendered by the Society and the voluntary helpers is much appreciated
by all concerned.
Luncheon Clubs
The British Red Cross Society operate a luncheon club for the elderly,
in accommodation provided by the City Council in Monck Street. The
club operates on two days per week, and provides a convenient centre
where elderly persons who are not housebound can have a hot meal at
a modest price, and enjoy the company of others.
The meals are purchased by the Society from the caterers who supply
the meals for the mobile service, and are conveyed in insulated containers
to the club, where they are served by voluntary workers.
As in the case of the "Meals on Wheels" service, the price paid to the
caterers was increased in July, 1962, to 2s. per meal; the old people pay
8d. per meal, the London County Council paid 1s. 1d., and the City Council
bore the balance of 3d. per meal. Here again, the London County Council
subvention is being discontinued in April, 1963, when the City Council
will become responsible for the whole of the balance, amounting to 1s. 4d.
per meal.
The City Council also makes a grant to the British Red Cross Society
of 75 per cent. of the costs of running the Club, as well as bearing the cost
of equipment. During 1962, a total of 2,520 meals were served at this
Club.
As mentioned previously, mid-day meals are also supplied by the
Westminster Old People's Welfare Association at the Day Club at
Sherborne House. During 1962, meals were provided on four days per
week during the period January June, and on five days per week from
July December; a total of 5,458 meals were supplied during the year.
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