The Whittlesea Community House Women’s Lunch has been part of the community since 2015, and over the years it has provided a hearty meal and an opportunity to socialise and make new friends.
The lunch happens twice per month at the Whittlesea Community Activity Centre in Laurel Street, Whittlesea.
Volunteers prepare and serve the lunch under the guidance of Chef Hala Zakuriya. Around 50 women attend the lunch each fortnight, while the volunteers gain invaluable skills in food preparation and catering.
Community House Manager Mary-Lynn Griffith said that since its inception, the lunch has grown into an effective training and nutrition program.
“The lunch also provides the opportunity for women who may be not eating well for a variety of reasons to enjoy sustenance and engagement,” she said.
The program has the support of the City of Whittlesea, the Department of Education, Whittlesea Lions, and local bus operator Dysons.
“We have found this support invaluable. The 2022 Pop-up Food Relief grant from the Victorian Government has allowed us to host a free, fresh food pop-up market, supporting local producers as well as vulnerable community members, and also to produce our first Hard Times Recipe Book,” Ms Griffith added.
The Hard Times Recipe Book contains recipes that are favourites at the community lunches. The book can be accessed on the Whittlesea Community House website.
The Women’s Lunch and the Big Bloke’s Brunch are part of the Neighbourhood House’s ‘Cooking for the Community’ program.
“The program helps participants expand their cooking skills while serving lunch to the community. This course is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about cooking and is suitable for all ages and abilities,” Ms Griffith said.
The training is recognised by the Commonwealth Department of Education ‘Skills for Education and Employment’ and can count towards job seekers’ Annual Activity Requirements (AAR).
The next Women’s Lunch will be held on June 27. For bookings and further information, please contact the Whittlesea Community House on 9716 3361.
