The organisation’s kitchen is on par with its commercial counterparts and will continue to upgrade its facilities thanks to a $500 donation from MidCoast Water’s annual community allocation.

Among the handouts, Tea Gardens Hawks Nest’s Australia Day celebrations have been supported to the tune of $1000, the Myall River Festival received $500, as did the Myall River Art Walk while the Anglican Parish of Tea Gardens/Bulahdelah will allocate their $750 toward the purchase a computer.

President of Tea Gardens/ Hawks Nest Meals on Wheels, Barry Abnet said the donation will go towards replacement of timber panelling under kitchen sinks.

“Our community support is good, there’s always someone willing to come to the party and help out.”

Mr Abnet said since state-wide food guidelines were enforced 12 months ago the organisation has had to apply for correct licenses and undergo inspections to qualify their service. Delivering more than 60 meals a day, four days a week from as far north as Bulahdelah to North Arm Cove in the south, Meals on Wheels has a dedicated team of 115 volunteers, both cooks and drivers who provide meals for the elderly and frail.

Almost $26,000 has been allocated to community, youth and welfare organisations across the Manning-Great Lakes under MidCoast Water’s annual sponsorship policy.

Regional events to gain the support of MidCoast Water included a $1000 sponsorship for the Great Lakes events Commotion by the Ocean music festival and the Foreshore Festival and Duck Race. A total of 35 groups received funding, ranging from $250 to $2000.