“It gives me great pleasure to announce $3000 from the NSW government for the community kitchen to purchase a commercial grade fridge to store food collected from local businesses,” Mr Barilaro said.
Director of CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning, Gary Christensen, is “absolutely thrilled” by the donation and says it “will enable us to store food donations and serve delicious, fresh meals to our patrons.
“We consider it important that NSW Government Ministers and the local MP witness for themselves the work volunteers do as well as the generous spirit of the Manning business community to address the plight of the vulnerable in our region,” Gary said. “The donation was the icing on the cake and a representation of the value placed on our service.
“The volunteers are amazing! Each day they collect food donations from businesses across the region and turn them into delicious and nutritious meals.
“We regularly serve around 30 people each day, but sometimes it can be as many as 50,” Gary said.
“Stephen Bromhead MP has been a fantastic supporter since CatholicCare first opened the doors and we’re grateful to him for attending and securing John Barilaro’s presence.
“It is this support − as well as from our donors and volunteers − that we hope will enable CatholicCare to expand on the lunch service offered during the week,” Gary said.
Mr Bromhead believes the kitchen and volunteers are an asset to our community.
“The Taree Community Kitchen and its volunteers don’t just provide a nourishing meal, they provide care and compassion to those who need it most and that’s why I will continue to provide the support these organisations need.”
To enquire about volunteering or supporting Taree Community Kitchen, please P 4979 1120.