“The Christ Church Community Meals Program was established by Father Barry Smith almost 35 years ago with the Breakfast Program. Some months later, the Wednesday evening meal was introduced and later the Monday eveningmeal. From the very early days when you could count the guests on the fingers of one hand it has evolved into a thriving program where it’s not unusual to have over 70 guests for breakfast and úsually around the 50 for the evening meals.
Everyone is welcome, we never send anyone home empty handed and we don’t ask questions; if people come to us we believe they must have a need of some kind- if it isn’t the food perhaps is the need to talk to someone. With the onset of Covid we transitioned from sit down meals to take away as required by government regulations. The emphasis remained on nutrition so that we continued to serve healthy meals- toasties made of eggs, bacon, cheese etc. In lieu of cereal we çontinue to offer Up and Go because of its nutritional value. Fruit is offered with every meal and tea, coffee and milo are served, as many as they like. The Breakfast Program runs every day of the year from 7.30 am – 9.00 am. The Monday and Wednesday eveningmeals operate between 4.30 pm and 6 pm all year. Monday is pie night, with soup and dessert served as well. On Wednesday a cooked meal is prepared by volunteers and local businesses. We also operate an emergency Food Cupboard in the Church each day from 12 noon to 2 pm and deliver hampers to families in need once a week.
We have the most wonderful team of volunteers coming from far and wide. There are currently in excess of 50 volunteers onsite each week with many moreinvolved in preparation elsewhere. We are a true community program as funding comes entirely from the community. Our supporters include local trusts and foundations, service clubs (Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis) as well as Food Share, Give Where You Live, St John of God, churches of all denominations, businesses, sporting groups, schools and individuals, some of whom wish to remain anonymous”.
Jan McGowan is currently one of the Geelong finalists in the 2025 Westfield Local Heroes award. She has been involved with and coordinates this exceptional program for over three decades and we encourage people to vote for Jan to support the Christ Church Community Meals Program. The winner will receive $20,000 towards their community. If you would like to vote, google Westfield Local Heroes and follow the prompts. Voting closes on Monday, 8th September 2025.
HuG 