The Taree Community Kitchen has clocked up 20,000 meals being served by volunteers, and CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning recently celebrated the milestone.
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Kitchen volunteers, donors and patrons joined with CatholicCare staff and Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie to mark the auspicious occasion.
The director of CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning, Gary Christensen, is particularly buoyed by the milestone.
"These celebrations have been 3.5 years in the making and are a testament to the selfless support of volunteers, and generous donations from local businesses that have partnered with CatholicCare to deliver this essential community service," Mr Christensen said.
Dr Gillespie attended the celebration to announce that CatholicCare was successful in its bid for $4,250 funding, through the federal government's Volunteer Grants Program.
"I'm proud to support the Taree Community Kitchen through the Volunteer Grants Program. I was here when CatholicCare opened the Kitchen and now 20,000 meals have been served, which is no easy feat," Dr Gillespie said.
"I'd like to thank all the volunteers who turn up and cook and serve for free, as well as the Kitchen sponsors and donors, who give their business or hard- earned cash to make this work for people who are vulnerable and need support," Dr Gillespie said.
The funding will enable the Kitchen to purchase an industrial freezer and new tables and chairs.
CatholicCare assumed operations of the Taree Community Kitchen in 2015 with a desire to assist individuals, couples and families experiencing adversity. The Kitchen continues to grow in popularity, with volunteers now serving between 30-50 patrons each weekday. The increasing demands on the service, while welcome, have placed a strain on existing resources.
The Taree Community Kitchen operates from Victoria Street, overlooking Fotheringham Park. The service currently serves lunch Monday to Friday from noon to 1pm.
Mr Christensen said CatholicCare has its sights on expanding the Kitchen's operations to include weekend service.
"We'd love to hear from locals who can either volunteer their time, or goods from their business, to help us achieve this goal!" Mr Christensen said.
To find out more about the Taree Community Kitchen, or to volunteer or donate visit www.catholiccare.org.au or drop-in to the Taree Community Kitchen.