What started as an idea by local residences in Healesville at the start of September quickly spread across three businesses supporting multiple organisations providing chef prepared meals.
The good folks of Healesville commenced a pay it forward campaign to pay for a community meal with the team from My Little Kitchen cooking up a storm. Before we knew it Japanese Mountain Retreat Mineral Springs and Spa in Montrose were so inspired by the pay it forward system, they too wanted to supply meals along with community hub relief regular, Lillie Giang from The Food Affectionist.
Burnham Beeches - The Piggery Café in Sherbrooke is a founding supporter of the Free Food Program since 2016. Seven days per week our free food program volunteers would collect and distribute produce. The quality of bread and pastries produced at the onsite bakery is of such a high standard that it remained a sustainable staple for children in school breakfast clubs, after school care programs and community members who would not be in a position to purchase.
The ongoing support made possible thanks to the insight and generosity of Shannon Bennett, all Piggery Café managers and staff.
Proserpina Bakehouse in Sassafras have lead the way since the first lockdown with freshly baked meals donated to the free food programs. Owners, Carolyn Deutsher and Gary Copper have continually donated freshly baked end of day meals, both vegan, vegetarian and meat to our most vulnerable within the community. Six days per week meals have been loving care packed and categorized for delivery.
Seasons at Cloudehill have also joined the efforts along with long time weekly support from Mountain Wholefoods - Mount Dandenong.
Having access to quality chef prepared meals made with love and care has made a world of difference to so many in our community.