Orange people in need of food support, especially the homeless, vulnerable people and those struggling with the cost of living, will benefit from a $10,000 grant from Orange City Council to the Orange Uniting Church for its Hot Meals Outreach Program.
Orange Deputy Mayor Gerald Power says the program offers important support to members of the community in need and Council is a proud supporter of the initiative.
''The grant will provide a free, hot meal to about 140 people each Saturday nights," Cr Power said.
MEALS: The Orange Uniting Church parish has welcomed $10,000 Council sponsorship for its hot meals program. The Revd Andrew Cunningham and Bev Rankin from the parish met with Deputy Mayor Gerald Power in the kitchen where meals are cooked.
"More than 7,000 people in need will benefit from this grant in 2023.''
The program's total budget this year is $18,000. All costs of the program are covered through grants and donations. The project relies entirely on volunteers giving their time, donations of money and food that is given by individuals, schools and businesses in the city.
The Revd Andrew Cunningham from the Orange Uniting Church parish is pleased with the community support for the 'Hot Meals' program.
''So far, the program has been supported by generous donations, members of the congregation, and people outside the congregation,'' Reverend Andrew Cunningham said.
''This program is not only about the meal but also about letting people know they are a valued part of the local community, no matter what they are facing."
Hot Meals Outreach seeks to work in tandem with other food provision programs in Orange. While other programs aren't available on Saturdays or weekends, the Hot Meals Outreach Program is here to help every Saturday of the year.
The Orange United Church provides support to the community for those in need, regardless of faith, background or circumstance.
Started in 2020, Orange Uniting Church Hot Meals Outreach also provides an opportunity to identify other needs that community members may have such as clothing etc. Referrals and additional support can then be offered.
Community members in need are welcome to come along for a free, hot takeaway meal every Saturday evening from 5pm to 6pm. The Hot Meals Outreach program takes place from the hall behind Orange Uniting Church on Anson Street.
