Community Food Aid
Kenthurst Rotary Club and Hills Community Aid have joined forces to launch Community Food Aid to help families in need of assistance with food and essential items.
The service will operate on Fridays after ANZAC Day, between 8.30am and 10.30am at the Balcombe Heights Estate (Turner Building 3) 92, Seven Hills Road, Baulkham Hills, opposite Jasper Road School.
Attendees can choose items from the pantry plus the Kenthurst food truck and the Hills Daily Grind will be on hand to provide breakfast and coffee.
Kenthurst Rotary President Kathy Bray said the club’s Food Barn project in collaboration with Hills Community Aid – Community Food Aid was an important step in the club’s community care initiative.
As well as supplying food staples, breakfast and beverages it offers information and referrals to other agencies.
“Kenthurst Rotary addresses immediate needs with hot meals through its food truck initiative and HCA complements this by offering long-term support including social, financial, and educational programs,” she said. “Together, we are creating a holistic support system for vulnerable individuals and families throughout the Hills District.”
At the beginning of this year the Club started the Kenthurst Rotary Food Van for the disadvantaged with a food service at the Salvation Army Centre at Dural and on Tuesday evenings and one at Power Ford at Castle Hill on Thursday evenings.”
“The people who come are people who are living in cars, they come for food and companionship,” said Kathy.
“At Dural they can have a shower and pick up food and clothing. We had one man who came who hadn’t eaten for days. One woman has been living in her car with her cat and bird in a cage and another regular comes with her young children.
“It’s heartbreaking.” “Some stay and talk for an hour or more. We don’t ask questions and we don’t judge. We just listen. It’s like a little community, we sit and chat about life in general.”
She says meals are freshly prepared by volunteers.
“Restaurants, grocery stores, and food suppliers’ partner with the initiative, generously donating ingredients and supplies.
She said the Kenthurst Rotary Food Van for the Homeless was one of the busy club’s most “impactful” projects.
“Homelessness and food insecurity are pressing concerns throughout our region. Beyond nourishment, the van brings dignity, compassion, and connection to those it serves.”
She said that community support is essential to sustain the initiatives.
“You can make a difference by: volunteering for meal preparation, housing support, or logistics.
Donating food, funds, or services or partnering as a business, offering supplies, discounts, or sponsorships.
To find out more visit the club’s website at: https://www.kenthurstrotaryclub.com.au
