Prior to the meeting, chairman of the foundation, Ross Williams said: “There is strong evidence that within the local area there are many homeless and socially isolated people who might benefit from a good meal, social engagement and if required, referral to other community services.”

Of the 35 people who attended the meeting, 21 committed themselves as volunteers to a Ricky’s type place in Merimbula, which will initially begin with a three month trial, early in 2015, Mr WIlliams said. He added that a phone call he had received since the meeting, has resulted in a qualified chef, newly arrived in town, offering his services.

At the meeting, Mr Gerd Tiedt, the cook at Monty’s place in Narooma, spoke about the phenomenal growth in 12 months from 5 clients to 45 now attending ‘Monty’s’ place in that town.

Mr Williams said the foundation was not trying to “reinvent the wheel” by duplicating services offered by St Vinnies or the Salvation Army. He praised the generosity of local grocery chains, Woolworths and Coles, who have committed their continued support for a Merimbula community kitchen. 

The Merimbula Uniting Church will be the venue for the kitchen which will begin by offering a lunchtime meal one day per week commencing in early 2015, once the Development Application has been processed by the BVSC, who have offered their “in principle support”. 

Mr Williams said more volunteers will be needed and asked anyone interested to visit the foundation’s website: http://reachingout.org.au/ or phone 6494 4452.