Free lunch a big win

Nevin Firmani and Aysel Buvan cooking up a storm. (Damjan Janevski) 400834_01

In collaboration with the Homestead Community and Learning Centre and DPV Health, the Northern Turkish Women’s Association has been serving up free hot lunches every Wednesday during the school term since May, 2022.

The Northern Turkish Women’s Association was established in 1993, and since has been working actively to minimise cultural, financial, and language barriers and improve integration and participation rates of people from a range of diverse backgrounds.

They have helped a significant number of disadvantaged, isolated Turkish women and their families by developing their skills making integration into Australian Society a seamless process.

In a time where many are struggling to make ends meet, the opportunity for a free lunch and good company is rare.

Centre leader Clare Swanson commends the association and says the lunches are a win for everyone involved.

“We all look forward to Wednesdays for lunch,” she said.

“It’s a great reason to chat over Turkish tea or coffee, especially for our seniors.

“The Northern Turkish Women’s Association has created a warm, friendly space where people of all ages, backgrounds, and languages are welcome.”

Staff at Homestead Community and Learning Centre made themselves available to assist seniors in applying for a Victorian Seniors card online.

In addition, the centre offers further seniors support with Tai Chi, keep fit and strong, walking groups and prime movers exercise classes to senior card holders.