St Thomas' Anglican Church Pastor Stuart Webb said volunteers are cooking about 100 meals each week to serve between 200 and 250 people. Mr Webb said the meals differ in sizes to cater for large families, or a single person in need.

The hall is providing the takeaway service on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 1pm.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pastor Webb said they are seeing an increasing amount of people who are now vulnerable, as they might have lost their job, or are unable to pay their rent due to the economic circumstances.

The soup kitchen not only provides takeaway frozen meals but also fresh vegetables, fruit, clothes and sleeping items for those who might need it.

The kitchen is supported by a range of local business who give fresh produce and groceries to the team.

Pastor Webb said the COVID-19 economic impact has reached all ages and people from all backgrounds.

He mentioned a mother of four children who recently lost her casual job and is now struggling to put food on the table.

Some of the older volunteers of the soup kitchen are now having to isolate, due to health requirements, but Pastor Webb said younger members have been able to step in to help out.

Although the soup kitchen is currently operating with skeleton staff, there are still about a dozen people to call on who can ensure the service can operate.

When they do attend the hall to hand out the takeaway meals to people, the volunteers are practicing social distancing and taking precautions (such as wearing masks).

Some volunteers are cooking meals from home in self-isolation, while chefs are working by themselves in the hall's commercial kitchen.

Pastor Webb said if people don't have access to a microwave, the church can also heat up the meal for them.

The church also offers a delivery service, on a case by case basis, for those who can't pick up the meals in person from the church.

Pastor Webb is urging people to reach out to the church if they need support.

He said he wants people to know they are not alone and there are people in the community who care about them.

If you can help the church by donating food or other items, please get in contact by calling 6584 1033 or email office@portanglican.com

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