Central Coast Home & Lifestyle Magazine Winter 2025

Meals on Wheels Volunteer Elvin Chan Honoured M eals on Wheels Central Coast is delighted to congratulate Elvin Chan on being awarded

the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to volunteering from David Harris MP. Elvin has been an integral part of Meals on Wheels Central Coast for the past four years, beginning his journey during the COVID-19 pandemic as a Meal Delivery volunteer. His unwavering commitment ensured that vulnerable members of the community continued to receive essential meals and support

Keep Moving to Maintain Good Health S taying physically active is the single most important thing we can do to stay fit and independent. As we grow older, we lose muscle strength and sense of balance, and this can lead to a fall. The more active we remain, the better the chance of keeping our muscles strong, our joints mobile and maintaining good balance. Activities which are particularly good for balance and strength include gardening, walking, aqua aerobics, golf, group or home exercise classes, swimming, dancing, gym session, lawn bowls, tennis, pilates, tai chi, yoga, pickle ball. Try to include these into your routine every day. How much activity is enough? At least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, is recommended. These types of activities have plenty of benefits. They help keep your heart strong, your blood pressure down, and control your weight. By improving your balance and strength, you reduce your risk of falling and causing an injury or breaking a bone. And they keep you active enough to do the things you want to do, whether that be getting out of the chair easily or maintaining your home. Try to mix up the activities — this will exercise different muscles and helps keep you interested. You don’t have to do it all in one go — being active in 10–15-minute slots during the day works just as well. Age is no barrier — research shows that any exercise, at any age, is worth the effort. If you are in any doubt about exercises, please talk to your doctor.

during a time of great uncertainty. Beyond his regular meal deliveries, Elvin is known for going the extra mile – quite literally. Whether he is doubling back to assist a client in need, stepping in at short notice to cover shifts, or helping to pack and distribute gifts on special occasions, his generosity and kindness leave a lasting impact on both clients and fellow MOWCC volunteers. Reflecting on his award, Elvin shared, "It was a lovely surprise to be awarded, and I’m very thankful. The award belongs to all MOWCC staff and volunteers – it’s great teamwork. It makes me happy when I deliver meals to the clients who are sometimes waiting for me. Seeing their smiles and knowing I’ve made a difference makes me happy.” Lyn Ferris, Client Services Officer at the Tuggerah Outlet, describes Elvin as “a humble and gracious volunteer who is always generous with his time.” Amy Baulman, Volunteer & Program Coordinator, adds, “A huge congratulations, Elvin. You are always willing to lend a helping hand. This award is so well deserved, and we are beyond grateful for your kindness and dedication.” The Meals on Wheels Central Coast team is incredibly grateful to Elvin and all MOWCC volunteers for their continued support in making a difference in the community. For more information on Meals on Wheels Central Coast and how to become a volunteer, please visit ccmow.com. au or call us on 02 4357 8444.

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26 Home & Lifestyle Magazine | Winter 2025