Caroline Hammat
Plans are underway for a regular pop up stand in Millicent’s town centre to help end loneliness.
Millicent Community Church (MCC) is behind the initiative and they hope to have a roster of volunteers available soon for people to sit and chat with and maybe enjoy a hot milo.
If all goes well, by early February, there will be someone for at least one hour a week available to chat with informally.
Community pastor of the MCC, Shaun Mulick said the power of conversation is restorative both mentally and emotionally.
“Hopefully by term two we’ll be able to start doing most days of the week, and eventually every day of the year like a driver reviver but for those weary of life and needing a rest from their loneliness,” he said.
“Having regular social interactions with people also helps physical health as well.
“Just one hour a week where people can count on someone to hear their story and just know they are not alone.
‘We want to use our privilege to help restore dignity, hope and that sense of self worth.”
The church already has several programs underway to engage with the community and those who may need assistance.
On average they support 10-15 families through different initiatives.
Regular events include the weekly youth hub where dinner is included, and a monthly dinner and monthly breakfast.
Each Wednesday morning between 8am and 9am a free breakfast is available for families.
“It’s designed to take a bit of pressure off and also helps us identify people who might need grocery help or other assistance,” Mr Mulick said.
“It also gets some snacks in the lunch box and things like that.
“The stats are still around one in six Australian kids are going to school without food.”
