What’s next for Wharekaka?

Meal on Wheels from Wharekaka are set to continue; a programme of daytime activities for seniors and more accommodation for independent living have been proposed.  This was the outcome of a public meeting held with the Wharekaka Trust Board on 4 March.

“We are delighted that, with help from the Wharekaka Auxiliary and their amazing volunteers, plus our wonderful cook, Madeleine Young, we have been able to continue Meals on Wheels without a break. This is a leap of faith on the part of the board as there is a significant gap between income from this service and their costs, which we hope the community will continue to meet,” says  Wharekaka Trust Board Chair, Joy Cooper.

“We still have our lovely lounge and dining room and are thinking now about how to use these for more volunteer-run services such as a lunch club for seniors, and some activity and social programmes,” she says

Any decision about buildings and site development are several months away.  Before the Board embarks on any changes, it needs to consider a range of options, and complete feasibility studies including detailed plans and costings.

“When these steps are complete by the end of 2022, we will have a detailed and costed plan to share with the community for their input. Much will depend on community support, including support to maintain meals and day services in the interim,” says Joy.

During March the Board and Wharekaka staff have been fully occupied ensuring the safe closure of residential care and that the relocation of residents was as smooth as possible for residents, their families and staff.

“This has been a very stressful and distressing time for all, and we are very thankful that all our residents have been relocated to alternative care services within the Wairarapa,” says Joy.

“As well as Meals on Wheels, we continue to look after our 12 villas and their residents.  We are delighted that Sally Adams has agreed to stay on as the Wharekaka administrator. Lachlan our wonderful handyman, and special favourite of the villa residents, is also staying on.”

If you would like to help deliver Meals on Wheels, please contact Sally on 306 9701 and any donation would be very welcome via Sally, at Wharekaka, or through the Wharekaka Give-a-little page.