IT’S a strategy that will see a lot of chopping and dicing and inevitably some stewing over.
Community group Life Without Barriers in Townsville has received $159,000 to pilot a new volunteer meal-sharing program to address social isolation and strengthen community relationships.
Originating in theUK and operating in several southern local government areas, the web-based Casserole Club matches volunteer cooks with older diners who could benefit from a home-cooked meal and a chat.
If successful in Townsville, plans are afoot to extend the state government program throughoutQueensland, somethingBrisbane resident Sue Barker welcomes.
“I think it is a terrific idea. I can think of some older people who need a nudge along to eat well,” said Sue, 60, known in her community as a “casserole angel” for providing meals for sick or elderly locals in need.
“How lovely to get a nourishing meal and some company as well.”
Sue said that in the past nobody gave a second thought to making a meal for someone who needed one: “It just happened.”
“The need for an initiative like the Casserole Club says a lot for our society. I hope it can fill a void made by people’s own busyness.”
- Would-be Townsville casserole cooks or diners can contact Life without Barriers, 07 4755-7400 or email casserole@lwb.org.au
