David Prendergast, Sona Sásta Committee Member; Cllr Paul O’Rourke, Pat Dunne, Sona Sásta Founder; Ann Heffernan, Sona Sásta Treasurer; Monica Gray, Sona Sásta Committee Member; Paula Farrell, Sona Sásta Kitchen Co Ordinator and Kieran Kehoe, MCC Chief Executive.

Proud milestone for Summerhill Meals on Wheels

Noelle Finegan

Published: Fri 16 May 2025, 1:04 PM

Sona Sásta Meals on Wheels was deeply honoured to receive recognition at the Meath County Council Municipal District Awards, held last week to celebrate outstanding contributions to local communities across the county.

The award is a proud milestone for the Sona Sásta team, which has been serving the South Meath area since 1996. Starting with just nine dinners a day, the project now delivers an average of 82 hot meals each weekday, thanks to the commitment of 15 volunteers, a dedicated committee, CE and Tus scheme participants and part-time staff.

Meals are prepared fresh daily in their premises in Summerhill village and delivered to individuals in Rathmolyon, Moynalvey, Kiltale and beyond, with the support of local Meals on Wheels groups in the Breda Centre Johnstownbridge, Dunboyne and Kilcock.

The service also brings people together. Twice a week, the minibus collects recipients who gather in Summerhill for lunch and social interaction, as well as a chance to do their shopping or visit the post office. Pat Dunne, founder of Sona Sásta, commented: "This award is not just for our team — it’s for every volunteer, driver, cook, and supporter who has made it possible over the years. We’re proud of the work we do, and this recognition means a great deal to all of us.

"We wish to sincerely thank Cllr Paul O’Rourke for nominating us for this award and for his generous support through discretionary funding, which makes a real difference to our work on the ground.

Cllr O’Rourke said: “It was a privilege to nominate Sona Sásta Meals on Wheels for this award. The impact they have on our local community is immeasurable — not only through the meals they deliver, but through the care, connection and dignity they provide to some of our most isolated and vulnerable neighbours. Their work embodies everything the Municipal District Awards are meant to celebrate. I’m proud to support them and deeply grateful to everyone involved in keeping this vital service going.”

Sona Sásta Meals on Wheels Summerhill was founded by Fr Michael Whittaker, Mr Pat Dunne and Mr PJ Gannon in 1996.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Sona Sásta Meals on Wheels service, please don’t hesitate to contact 086 877 8566 or 046 9557762.