MAITLAND UNITING CHURCH MUNCH PROGRAM

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—Congratulations to The Maitland Uniting Church for the delivery of their MUNCH meal program supporting so many in our community for the last 30 years. The MUNCH program is free and includes a two course dinner service, catering for up to 80 people from Maitland and surrounding areas twice a week. Even during COVID, they adapted to take out meals and continued to provide food for those in need. MUNCH truly is people coming together to serve the community, with 30 active volunteers from all walks of life and backgrounds, making up the volunteer team. MUNCH aims to boost self-confidence and is a safe space where guests do not feel judged and are accepted. The success of MUNCH can be seen as over the years guests have returned as volunteers, to give back, knowing the difference it can make. Thank you MUNCH for welcome those that need support with open arms and offering care beyond food.