Stat Min EAE LR wet on atl

ORME ET ARIE wee ante a cae,

At te peat

Octobér 26, 1973

Mayor and Council

The Simon Fraser Health Unit advise that a Meals on Wheels Program is definitely
needed in Port Coquitlam. There are many instances where individuals are released
from hospital and require attention from the Health Unit Home Nursing Service
because it is the only service available. The Home Nursing Service should be
utilized by more needy cases and the Meals on Wheels Program would suffice. The
Heaith Unit anticipate that there would probably be not much more than ten meals
per day being served in Port Coquitiam. I note that the group has indicated

a subsidy of 25¢ per meal would be required and that they intend to operz~e three
days aweek. Our subsidy would thereforbe approximately $2.50 per day or $7.50
per week,

If this service is to be established I would suggest that the organizers work as
closely as possible with the Simon Fraser Health Unit as a contact agency and to
assist in screening applicants. In addition they might contact Valleyview Hospital
or Hawthorne Lodge with a view to obtaining the meals and possibly obtaining advice
on diet etc. They may have already taken this step.

Mre. Harris and her group are to be commended for organizing this service as I

am sure they are aware of the commitment involved in providing this service on a
steady basis. It requires a strong organization and dedicated workers. The

New Westminster service has operated without interruption for six years. If Council
is prepared to underwrite the subsidy the City staff could work with the volunteer
organization in the administration of the program.