About 90 percent of the service's volunteers are over 70 years old and will no longer be able to support local elderly residents.

Around 80 volunteers worked to a roster, some working once a month, others once a week.

"This change comes at a time when we are increasing the number of meals provided to the community," Orange City Council chief executive officer David Waddell said.

"We are receiving more requests from services that have closed their regular community lunches and from people who are isolating due to their age," he said.

Instead of volunteers, council staff members from other services that have closed or have reduced activity, such as youth services, Occasional Care, theatre and library staff, will work for the service.

The new change is to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 and ensure volunteers can continue to deliver meals to the most vulnerable.

"Council is continuing to support the service to local elderly residents to help them continue living their lives at home," Mr Waddell said.

"As well as the service, council is also providing a routine of phone calls to the older people who usually participate in social outings, to make sure they're safe and respond to their needs."

Meals on Wheels not only provides meals, but also toilet paper and fresh fruit and vegetables.

DO YOU WANT MORE ORANGE AND DISTRICT NEWS?

Receive our free newsletters delivered to your inbox, as well as breaking news alerts. Sign up below