Earlier this year, medical student Ben Quirico was in Italy on exchange.
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When Coronavirus forced the country into lockdown, Ben witnessed firsthand just how hard life became for many people.
"During the lockdown it made me realise if you're stuck at home, little things like doing your shopping are a lot harder [especially] for those people who can't go out," he said.
After he flew back to Australia, Ben moved back home to the Southern Highlands.
But rather than stay at home, Ben said his experiences overseas made him want to help his local community.
And so he became a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels.
"[I thought] what can I do to help [and so] I've been delivering meals to those people who need to stay at home," he said.
"This time for them can be quite isolating. It's nice to check in with them and have a chat. It's valuable for them as well to have that connection."
And while there is limited contact between Ben and the clients he delivers to, Ben has already made some lovely connections.
He said one of the clients he delivers to had knitted him a scarf to keep him warm on the walk up their long driveway.
"With the lockdown it's forced people to be more involved with people around them.
"It's a great thing for them [clients] and it's fantastic for us to get out and chat to different people and to feel connected and involved in my community."
Ben said he hoped to be able to continue to volunteer with Meals on Wheels until at least the end of the year.
He encouraged anyone with some extra time on their hands to do the same.
Volunteers can also help Meals on Wheels in the kitchen, or administrative work as well as through delivering meals.
Visit https://www.mealssouthernhighlands.org.au/ to get in touch about becoming a volunteer.
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