Vinnies WA CEO Ann Curran recently swapped her office for the hustle, bustle and heat of the Kelmscott Community Kitchen where she joined the dedicated team of members and volunteers to serve meals.
For the past four years, the food relief initiative has offered more than just a hearty meal; it has created a place of safety, hope and warmth where people can connect with others in their community without judgement.
Held every Wednesday, the Community Kitchen can serve up to 70 people in one night. They come from all walks of life, including young families, older residents, single parents and people experiencing homelessness.
At the end of each service, leftover food is packaged up and distributed to people in need, including those sleeping rough in the local community.
The idea was driven by a team of St Vincent de Paul Society WA Members led by Bridget de Freitas, who recently stepped into the role of Queens Park Regional President.
Having witnessed firsthand the impact of food insecurity and rising living costs in her local community, Bridget and her fellow members saw a need and decided to act.
What began in a small parish kitchen preparing meals for people living in nearby caravan parks quickly grew.
Two years ago, Chosen Church became the new home for the food initiative, providing not only access to a full commercial kitchen where meals could be prepared, but also a welcoming dining space where food could be served and enjoyed by hungry diners.
“We are immensely grateful to Pastor Aaron Pryce, who has supported this initiative for the past two years,” Bridget revealed.
“We are also lucky to have extra helping hands each week from volunteers at the local rehabilitation centre, Pindari House. It really highlights how the local community is coming together to help people in need.”
For Bridget, that commitment goes well beyond Wednesday nights.
Alongside managing a family business and overseeing the Community Kitchen, she coordinates a weekly street outreach run, delivering food and checking in on the welfare of people sleeping rough.
“You get to meet a variety of people from all walks of life,” Bridget said of her involvement.
“A simple act of kindness and compassion shows them what we stand for. In their desperation and rejection, our members can make a huge impact through a simple visit.”
For Ann, spending time alongside the members and volunteers offered a firsthand glimpse of the compassion, generosity and commitment behind the Community Kitchen and the difference a grassroots initiative can make.
“Beyond meals, this incredible program offers dignity, belonging and hope, while strengthening community resilience and reducing food insecurity,” she said.
“Bridget and her wonderful team have recognised a real need in their community and responded in such a practical and compassionate way.
“This program showcases what we’re all about at Vinnies – where everyone who comes into contact with us is better for it.”