The $4,473 grant will assist the association upgrade it’s fridges, freezers and other equipment upgrades as it delivers meals to the greater Gunnedah region.

Parkes MP Mark Coulton delivered the grant on Monday to Meals on Wheels Association president Colleen Fuller.

Mr 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 will 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.

Mr Coulton also said the grant would help encourage the local community to become involved with the association. 

“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," he said.

Gunnedah Meals on Wheels Association president Colleen Fuller said the upgrades would make the association more efficient. 

“We currently help about 50 clients and these upgrades should hopefully make what we do more efficient,” Mrs Fuller said.

“This is a valuable service and we are lucky to have so many great volunteers who put in a hell of a lot of volunteer hours so this will hopefully make our work easier.”

The grant comes as part of round three of the federal government’s stronger communities program.