Thanks to our Bunbury Community Grants Program, Monadelphous has helped put more than food on the table; we’re helping to create a space for connection, comfort, and community.
We proudly supported Nourished Communities, a project run by the Greenbushes Community Resource Centre that’s feeding more than just hungry stomachs.
The program has two core goals: to provide emergency food relief to locals who are struggling, and to build community resilience through cooking classes that teach practical, long-term skills.
South West area manager Mark Holdman and cost controller Shannen King recently got to experience it all first-hand at a “Cooking on a Budget” workshop.
The class brought together locals to prepare three budget-friendly meals, which were then frozen and distributed to those in need.
But it wasn’t just about chopping vegetables and following a recipe.
“The most memorable part of the event was the shared meal at the end of the cooking session,” Shannen said.
“It felt less like a workshop and more like a family dinner. That simple act of coming together to eat created a sense of unity and warmth that was incredibly moving and genuine, and both Mark and I felt truly welcomed and at ease.”
The Resource Centre’s Community Pantry currently provides emergency food relief around five times a week, offering groceries and hygiene products to those struggling with the rising cost of living.
The pantry is kept going by generous donations from locals and small businesses, but as Shannen learnt on the day, demand is quickly outpacing supply.
“With the cost of living continuing to rise, donations have decreased significantly. The Centre is seeing more and more people in need, and they’re doing everything they can to keep up,” she explained.
“That’s where our funding helps keep shelves stocked and services running.”
The cooking classes add another layer to the support being offered, helping people make the most of limited ingredients while learning budgeting, food preparation, and preservation skills that extend beyond the kitchen.
Shannen said the impact of the Centre stretched far wider than she initially realised.
“Listening to people’s stories was incredibly eye-opening. Hearing firsthand accounts of the daily struggles families are facing made the experience incredibly powerful,” she said.
“It highlighted the critical role the Resource Centre plays in supporting those in need and reminded me not to take life’s basic comforts for granted.
“It was equally enlightening to discover the Centre’s extensive support offerings beyond food relief. The sheer scope and variety of what’s available is remarkable and highlights just how essential the Centre is to the local community.”
She also gave a shout-out to the team behind it all.
“None of this would be possible without the dedication and hard work of the small but incredibly committed team who run and manage the Resource Centre. Their passion, care, and local knowledge are the driving force behind its continued success and impact,” Shannen said.
Despite the heavy topics discussed, the atmosphere was full of energy and heart.
It’s clear that Nourished Communities is about much more than food. And we’re proud to have played a small part in making it possible.