The Older Women’s Network Deepwater Branch (OWN) raised almost $2,000 at a recent Soup Kitchen Fundraiser to highlight food insecurity in the community, on the Woy Woy Peninsula particularly.
On a very bleak, wet and cold day, over 60 guests including Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch enjoyed home-made chicken and vegetable soup provided by OWN Deepwater Secretary Jennifer Brown or pumpkin soup donated by Woy Woy Community Food Pantry volunteers and bread rolls provided by a donated gift voucher from Woolworths Woy Woy.
Dessert was scones, jam and cream donated by professional chef Tony Griffiths.
The Madeline Stephenson Tap Dance Troupe got everyone in the mood followed by the Rare Treats Band who entertained with easy listening music.
The first guest speaker was John Gibbins, Chairman and President of the Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre, who outlined the vast array of courses available to seniors including well priced lunches for $8.50pp.
Fiona MacPhail from Community SOS gave an outline of the many services provided including NILS, EAPA, Financial Management, an extensive youth program for young people who might be at risk, and the People’s Pantry – offering half price groceries.
Bridget Duggan from Mary Mac’s Place outlined its services which include showers for the homeless, Orange Sky Laundry van, beanies, scarves and fingerless gloves, food hampers for destitute families, and breakfast and lunch for all who attend.
David Bews, a local oyster farmer, is the co-ordinator of the Woy Woy Community Food Pantry and gave an outline of services provided through the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
He also spoke about the Hope and Meals program of which Jeffery Law, who passed away unexpectedly recently, was the Team Leader.
The program is still running with a new Team Leader, Joy Bremond.
The last speaker was Jason Millers, representing Meals-on-Wheels, who spoke to the needs of the elderly and disabled.
He highlighted that all meals are protein enriched with a vast array of choices.
OWN Deepwater donates quarterly to Meals-on-Wheels to provide petrol vouchers for the many volunteers.
