In the heart of Logan, a simple meal is making a profound impact.
Hope Ventures, the charity arm of the Hope Centre, has been hosting monthly community lunches for the past four years.
More than just a free meal, these gatherings foster connection, combat isolation, and provide valuable opportunities for the city’s youth.
Each month, the event sees a collaboration with Woodridge State High School, where Year 11 and 12 hospitality students take on the responsibility of preparing, cooking, and serving meals under the guidance of their teachers.
This hands-on experience helps them work toward their Certificate II and III in hospitality, significantly improving their employability upon graduation.
Hope Ventures Community Development Coordinator Melly Possumah said that many students gain employment from the experience they have gained at the lunches.
“Some have secured jobs while still studying, while others have stepped straight into work after graduation,” she said.
Since its inception, the community lunches have grown into a key fixture in the local support network.
They welcome people from all walks of life, including the elderly, families in need, and those experiencing homelessness.
Many who attend regularly have developed lasting friendships and found a sense of belonging.
“Our main reason for doing this is to tackle isolation and help our community connect with one another,” Miss Possumah said.
“We’ve seen people walk through our doors for the first time feeling lost or alone, only to find friendship, support, and even new opportunities.”
Beyond the meal, these lunches act as a hub for social services.
Various organisations attend to provide face-to-face referrals, ensuring those in need receive the necessary support.
Community police liaison officers, chaplains, and other stakeholders are also frequent attendees, strengthening ties between different groups within Logan.
The change in attendees who attend the lunches has been inspiring to Miss Possumah.
“One of our regulars Robbie is a great example of what these lunches can do,” said Possumah.
“He first came to us feeling disconnected after losing his wife and was sick of eating microwave lunches. He eventually joined a local men’s group who were attending one of the lunches and has found a strong support network.”
Another guest, Linda, was initially hesitant and reserved.
Now, she’s formed lasting friendships and has become an integral part of the lunch gatherings.
“Everyone needs a sense of purpose,” said Miss Possumah.
“We’ve seen incredible transformations, not just among attendees but within our own team. One of our volunteers, a once-shy young woman, is now our event emcee. Another, who leads the Acknowledgement of Country, has found purpose in representing her culture.”
Hope Ventures funds the initiative entirely through donations from the Hope Centre congregation.
The lunches take place on varying dates each month, with the next scheduled for April 24, followed by another on May 15.
The lunches are located at 440 Kingston Road, Slacks Creek.
