A meal always tastes better when shared with friends. That's the premises behind Gloucester's Food With Friends.
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It may have started as a way of helping to feed Gloucester residents in need but it has turned into is a place to make new friends.
The whole thing kicked off in May 2017 after Elizabeth Bartlett attended a homelessness meeting in town. She was determined to do something to help, so she got together a group of willing volunteers to cook a meal every Wednesday at the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Hall.
"The social aspect is greater than I expected," Elizabeth said.
Even though the meal only lasts a couple hours on a Wednesday, it's turned into a place to forge new bonds.
Tina Robinson was among the first group of volunteers and has been cooking as part of a team.
"I've always been a bit of a volunteer, so when Elizabeth said it was being started, it was only natural to volunteer," Tina said. "In the beginning, the first few meals were quiet, then you could see the friendships forming."
In the beginning, the first few meals were quiet, then you could see the friendships forming.
- Tina Robinson
The team work on a rotation basis, meaning the volunteers are only required in the kitchen once a month. From the time the volunteers collect the bits and pieces for the meal, get cooking and clean up, it takes about four hours. Typically, the volunteers join the patrons and they all eat and chat as a group.
Sadly, Tina is moving and will be leaving her team. Thankfully, new volunteers are happy to put their hands up, like Maeve Vella, who has gotten involved recently.
"I enjoy my monthly mornings at Food With Friends. It really is friendly. Living alone I often find cooking a chore, but cooking with other people is fun," Maeve said. "It's very satisfying to volunteer with a well-organised operation."
The group is always looking for new volunteers, whether you're on your own or have a group of friends ready to go. To learn more head to the SDA Hall on Hume Street on Wednesday from 10am to see the volunteers in action, or from noon, if you looking for a friendly meal. There is no cost to take part, however donations are accepted.
Funding for the meals has come from the generous support of community members who have provided either a lump sum donation or have set up a regular payment. Gloucester Charities and Lovey's IGA Gloucester also provide continued support.