Nourishing connections at Benalla’s free community lunches

One of the volunteers, Bronwyn Pitty, has been involved for more than 10 years.

“They’ve been running at the Uniting Church for more than 20 years,” Ms Pitty said.

“We had a little lull during COVID lockdowns, but we revived them a bit more than 12 months ago

“We run with the support of the salvation Army and Anglican church.

“So, including the Uniting church, we have people from three churches helping, as well as a lot of other volunteers.”

The idea of the lunches is inclusivity, and as such all are welcome.

“We don’t ask for any money, but if people wish to donate they can,” Ms Pitty said.

“And while some give money, some are not able to. But they might help pack up, for example, and that’s their donation.”

The meals are three courses. An example of a typical meal would be soup, a salad roll, a dessert and a cup of tea.

The food served comes from charitable donations left in a trolley at the front of Benalla Coles.

“People in Benalla are very generous,” Ms Pitty said.

“Some week’s we’ve had more than $100 worth of items donated. It’s usually things like canned goods, soup and cereal.

“Anything we don’t serve is put on a table for people to take what they need after the meal.

“The trolley has been arranged with the help of Coles’ management, who were happy to support the cause.”

The lunches take place every Friday from 12.15pm. If you would like to attend you simply need to turn up.

“It’s a fabulous atmosphere,” Ms Pitty said.

“People might come along because they’re lonely. Some may be in need of a good meal.

“Some like to come along to catch up with friends. And the volunteers get as much out of it as the people who come for lunch.

“It’s a very friendly environment and we have a lovely buzz in the room.”

If you would like to find out more, or if you’d like to offer your time a a volunteer you can call Ms Pitty on 5763 2390.