Deliveries deepen connection
By Tina Salima
As the youth of St Stephen’s Uniting Church (St. Stephens Keilor Youth), our mission is “to know God and make Him known” inspired by Acts 20: 24.
Motivated by this purpose, we established an outreach program in collaboration with Nandos to provide meals to individuals in need throughout our community.
Through these efforts, we aim not only to support those who are facing challenges but also to share God’s love and grace in a practical and compassionate manner.
In a trial run, our youth distributed over 40 meals to elderly members of our congregation and others.
The positive feedback we received inspired our youth, reinforcing their commitment to community service and fostering a deeper dedication to bringing comfort and support to those in need.
On our second delivery, we extended our reach by traveling to specific areas in the western suburbs with high numbers of homelessness, offering meals to all or whoever approached us.
Witnessing the positive response was incredibly rewarding.
It affirmed the impact of our efforts on those in the community doing it tough.
This experience has been both uplifting and humbling.
It brings to light the daily struggles faced by a lot of people in our midst.
Providing a meal to those in need reminds us of the simple things that we take for granted, instilling a sense of warmth and purpose.
We find delivering meals to be immensely rewarding.
It allows our youth to unite and strengthen our bonds while sharing God’s love.
Each delivery not only serves those in need but also deepens our connection as a group, reminding us of the essential values of compassion and kindness within our community.