The Joy of Shared Meals in the Sun
From Virginia Moebus-Nelson, Executive Officer
Autumn has surely arrived here at CAN with brisk, misty mornings and glorious sunny afternoons. An unusually hot summer saw us batt on down the hatches and stay inside for Wednesday lunches in the early part of term one, but we are back sharing lunch outside.
Sharing lunch with our community outside under the gum trees out the back is one of my favourite parts of this job. Every week sees us welcome a new guest or several, generally a passer by who sees us eating together outside and decides to join.
We extended hospitality to our neighbours in this same space at the end of last year to celebrate the end of the year and Christmas with a gourmet BBQ, fun kids’ activities, African Coffee with Aunty Gemia and ice-cream. It was a beautiful sunny day – not too hot or too cold – and we enjoyed the festivities with about 150 of our neighbours and other local people. An army of volunteers generously gave of their time to ensure a great afternoon of celebrating together before the year drew to a close.
Meet the team - Janet Ray - Family Learning Program Manager
We extended hospitality to our neighbours in this same space at the end of last year to celebrate the end of the year and Christmas with a gourmet BBQ, fun kids’ activities, African Coffee with Aunty Gemia and ice-cream. It was a beautiful sunny day – not too hot or too cold – and we enjoyed the festivities with about 150 of our neighbours and other local people. An army of volunteers generously gave of their time to ensure a great afternoon of celebrating together before the year drew to a close.
What drew you to the work at CAN Community Support?
Before coming to CAN, what was your favourite job that you ever had?
What have you enjoyed most about your work with the Family Learning Program so far?
How do you enjoy spending your time when you are not working for CAN Community Support?
What is your favourite book and why?
1. ‘Animal, Vegetable, Miracle’, Barbara Kingsolver – about how she and her family for various
Meet the team – Janet Ray – Family Learning Program Manager
environmental, political and health reasons decided to eat locally for a year and produce as much of their own food as they could.
2. I have also just read ‘Phosphorescence – On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark’ by Julia Baird and loved her quiet feminism, faith and wisdom.
3. I am currently reading ‘Braiding Sweetgrass’ by Dr Robin Wall Kimmerer – such a gentle and wise book.
Multicutltural Women's Weekend Away
Last October we were delighted to have our Women’s Group, once again, setting off together for a weekend of fun, relaxation, friendship building and time in the outdoors, staying at Allansfield Retreat House on Phillip Island. Our Women’s Group Co-ordinator, Yirgalem, shares some reflections on a wonderful weekend:
“Our three-day camping trip to Phillip Island was truly unforgettable! Filled with joy, laughter, personal growth, and new friendships, it was an incredible success. It was also a significant milestone for me, as it marked my first time coordinating a ladies’ camp, and I’m so grateful for how smoothly everything went.
The campsite was both beautiful and peaceful, perfectly located just a short walk from the beach….The nearby ocean gave us the chance to take lovely walks along the shore and breathe in the fresh sea air.
A special highlight was having Shazia* and her elderly mother, Bettel*, join us. Although communication with Bettel was sometimes challenging, Faribah*, who speaks several languages, kept her company and helped her feel included. At 84 years old, Bettel impressed us all with her strength and enthusiasm—she didn’t miss a single activity and kept up with the group in her wheelchair the entire time! The camp provided a meaningful opportunity for Mary* and Faton*, who had never spent time away from their children before. The first day was tough for them as they felt anxious about the separation, and their children struggled too. However, by the second day, they began to relax and enjoy the experience. It turned out to be a valuable and rewarding opportunity, helping them build confidence and embrace time for themselves.
We shared so many joyful moments during the trip and enjoyed visiting the local attractions. Everyone enjoyed exploring the Koala Conservation Centre, Penguin Parade, Churchill Island, and the Nobbies. Our morning walks to the beach and evening board games were amazing. Everyone learned how to play Rummikub and Spot It!
On our way back, we stop at chocolate factory, which was a fun and delicious way to end the weekend.
Overall, this camping trip was a wonderful experience filled with joy, connection, and personal growth.
Despite a few challenges, we all bonded deeply and made lifelong memories.”
*All names have been changed
We are so excited have received a
grant from StreetSmart Australia to support our food security program. This money will ensure that we can continue to offer community and support through food to our neighbours.
Click here to find out about their DineSmart program.
Become a CAN Community Support partner through regular giving!
As you may know, funding for our programs can be unpredictable and unreliable at times. Regular monthly donations from CAN Community Support Partners gives us some predictability and stability in income, so we can plan into the future. We would love you to consider becoming a CAN Community Support Partner by committing to a regular gift each month:
$50 a month provides stationary for students needing extra educational support through tutoring in our Homework Club
$100 a month provides a weekly nutritious shared meal and companionship for someone who is lonely and unwell.
$150 a month provides 10 food parcels for neighbours doing it tough in our community.
In Other News..
Grant to support our volunteers!
Choirs in the Round Fundraiser June 14
Once again on June 14 at 2pm we will be holding a wonderful afternoon of music performed by our good friends the Melbourne Mass Gospel Choir, Thursday’s Children and other great choral groups. All of the proceeds of this wonderful event will go to support the work of CAN Community Support so please grab yourself a ticket here for a soulful afternoon of song, community and food!
Rozi - Our First Ever Art Therapy Student
Your donations to CAN Community Support mean that we can continue to say 'yes' to everyone who comes to our door. We wish we could convey how grateful they are - and how much of a privilege it is to do this work on your behalf.
Click the link below to make a tax deductible donation today!
CAN Community Support is a part of Carlton (Church of All Nations)Uniting Church Parish Mission
a: 180 Palmerston St (PO Box 1013) Carlton 3053
w: www.cancommunitysupport.org.au
p: 03 9347 7077
e: contact@cancarlton.org.au
