As Christmas approaches, Feeding Friends has found a flurry of new support throughout the community. At the recent joint BBQ fundraiser with the Salvation Army, $1,065 was raised for the Christmas Luncheon.
More than 40 people attended last year’s Christmas luncheon, and Mr Barron expects that number to increase this year. “Because of the hard times and the number of homeless people increasing,” he explained.
A fortnight ago, Roy Butler, the state MP for Barwon, joined Feeding Friends on their evening dinner run, where he spoke with some clients of the organisation. Mr Butler observed, “The work of Feeding Friends in Broken Hill is vital when considering the growing problem of homelessness across NSW in recent years.” He added, “I saw firsthand the big impact a regular meal can have on someone’s physical and mental health.”
“Employment and housing won’t mean much if you have an empty stomach. Don and Kellie Novello identified a gap in services to the homeless and have stepped up to fill it with wholesome meals and genuine care,” he continued.
Only several days later, Feeding Friends announced that Wade Stephens Security would boost this year’s Christmas Luncheon by sponsoring the Christmas meals for those in need. Attendees of this year’s event will enjoy Prawn Cocktails, Roast Turkey, Potatoes, Carrots, Pumpkin, Peas, and Gravy, along with Christmas Pudding, all supplied by Wade Stephens Security.
Mr Barron said this sponsorship demonstrated “true compassion, friendship, and community spirit.” Mr Stephens, in an interview with the Truth, mentioned, “We wanted to help out a few families over Christmas through the hard times that people are going through at the moment.”
Not only is Wade Stephens Security supporting the Christmas Luncheon, but they are also assembling packages to support families in need over Christmas, valued at more than $2,500. “We would like to give $500 worth of goods to five families in the form of food hampers, toys, or a combination of both, to help make Christmas a special day,” he announced.
Previously, Wade Stephens Security donated toys to Hungry Jacks during their Christmas appeals. Regarding supporting the Christmas Luncheon, Mr Stephens said, “It could be something we could look at in the future as well.”
Another local business, preferring anonymity, also offered a donation to Feeding Friends for their Christmas Luncheon. The business owner told the Truth, “Feeding Friends, along with the Salvation Army, are very important to the community, as they service those who are most in need.” They expressed pride and privilege in assisting such a worthy cause and plan to explore further assistance in the future.
Feeding Friends is still accepting donations ahead of the Christmas Luncheon. Donations can be made by contacting Mr Barron or Ms Novello on the Feeding Friends Facebook Page or by calling 0498 953 784.
PICTURE: From left- Don Barron, Roy Butler, and Kellie Novello, delivering meals to Feeding Friends clients. Photo supplied.
