Lunch brings joy to lonely people

By Judy Wolff
THE spirit of Christmas is thriving in Ferntree Gully with the sixth free community Christmas Day lunch organised by Foothills Neighbourhood Communities.
The fully catered lunch, to be held from noon at St John The Baptist Parish Hall, is offered to people who are alone at Christmas or who are struggling in some way.
Organiser Steve Barrington said: “Over the last few years the lunch has brought great joy to many local residents who would otherwise have had a very lonely time.”
From small beginnings six years ago the lunch has become an institution and this Christmas expects to attract 150 guests.
Entertainment includes carols and children’s activities. The spontaneous nativity play is always a highlight, Mr Barrington said.
Dobson Ward councillor Karen Orpen spoke highly of the grass roots concern.
“We all feel very cosy in our own nests but obviously there is a large part of the community who are disadvantaged and it is people like Steve who are making life so much better for so many people. They just do a wonderful, wonderful job.”
Ingredients are donated by commercial sponsors including Get Fresh of Boronia, Alpine St Cellars, Nando’s Chicken and Bendigo Bank as well as Rotary service group and is supplemented by grants from Baird and Dobson wards.
Foothills Neighbourhood Communities fills any gaps with its own purchases.
A giving tree has been placed at Ferntree Gully Bendigo Community Bank, where residents can leave gifts for diners or food for hampers to be given away on the day.
Not only does the group, a branch of Ferntree Gully Church of Christ, provide the annual Christmas feast but also a regular Wednesday evening dinner at Ferntree Gully Guide Hall.
Christmas dinner will be held from noon at St John the Baptist Parish Hall, Forest Road, Ferntree Gully.
To make a free booking or to volunteer either on or before the day, phone Stephen Barrington on 8711 8677.