Management committee president Barbara Heckman said volunteering was a rewarding experience.

“It’s so rewarding, we go home with a smile on our face. This is the highlight of their week,” she said.

The smiling faces of elderly and disabled clients, with volunteer and paid staff, greeted the Mercury on its visit.

“It’s great for them to get out of the house. It stimulates their appetites.

“The smallest little lady eats as much as a man ,” Mrs Heckman said.

Maitland Meals on Wheels has operated since 1968 and it is now located at the East Maitland Community Centre.

Administration co-ordinator Sheree Conway said the response from the clients since the Maitland branch started the Tuesday luncheon 12 years ago had been positive.

“I don’t think we’ve had anyone come here and try it, and not come back.

“It’s given some of them that confidence to go out a little more,” Mrs Conway said.

Over coming days, clients will be given an engraved pen of appreciation to let them know they have been part of the National Meals on Wheels Day.

Maitland Meals on Wheels will hold a volunteer recognition luncheon on November 2.