By Matthew Sims
The Salvation Army Pakenham Corps is hoping to help more locals battle their social isolation with the popular Hope Cafe initiative expanding.
With the Bald Hill Road site open for all from 10am to noon on Mondays as part of Hope Cafe, which offers people a chance to catch up with a cuppa and a free feed, the corps will now be opening its doors from 10am to noon for Hope Cafe on Thursdays, starting this week.
Salvation ministry team leader Pip Proellocks said the initiative is a popular part of people’s weekly activities
“It’s for people who want to have some company,” she said.
Ms Proellocks said the initative usually attracts 40 to 50 people per week.
“It seems to be a growing need,” she said.
Lieutenant Colonel Denis Lorimer said the program is in line with the Salvation Army’s overall mission.
“It fits extremely well with us as a Christian-based organise, we are always working with the people who are at risk,” he said.
“We need to look after those who are finding life a bit difficult living on their own.
“They come out of their shell.”
Lt Col Lorimer said one of their regular volunteers was “extremely shy” when he first joined the corps, but has now grown into being an essential part of the team.
“He takes incredible pride in the work that he does,” he said.
“A lot of our volunteers come on board through our community assistance program.”
The Pakenham Corps is also changing its Sunday morning schedule, with the congregation deciding to move its community lunch to 11.30am, followed by its church service at 12.30pm.
For more information on the Pakenham Corps’ activities and services, visit www.salvationarmy.org.au/locations/victoria/v160/pakenham-corps
