Street Feast draws big turnout in tough times

The fourth annual Parramatta Street Feast proved that the simple act of sharing a meal can make a difference.

More than 200 people living on the fringe of society, turned out at St Patrick’s Hall, Parramatta on Wednesday, November 13 to share a meal, friendly company and entertainment from the Sydney Street Choir.

PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan shares a meal at the fourth annual Parramatta Street Feast.

The event is a response to Pope Francis’ World Day of the Poor and the call to build a more inclusive, welcoming and generous society.

The event is hosted by the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta, PAYCE Foundation, Paynter Dixon and St Merkorious Charity.

PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan said too many people are struggling to survive on the streets, particularly with rents skyrocketing and the ever-increasing cost of living leading to increased food insecurity.

“The Street Feast is a simple act of humanity to let people know they are not alone. Sadly, more people are facing the prospect of living on the streets,” he said.

“The PAYCE Foundation is dedicated to helping people on the margins live a life of dignity and fulfilment and that’s why we are a founding supporter of this event.

“It is amazing what the act of sharing a meal can do, in reminding us of the need for community and social connections.

“Today’s event had a real sense of enjoyment and purpose.”

The Catholic Bishop of Parramatta, Bishop Vincent Long said there is no better way than sharing a meal with the disadvantaged and those on the margins to build a stronger, more inclusive community.

“A mark of a civil society is that of inclusion, that of care and outreach to those who are on the margins. And this is also the constant theme of Pope Francis’s pontificate – wherever he goes, that message of love, of care, of common humanity shines through his message, his gestures and his actions,” said Bishop Vincent.

“We want to replicate this theme of Pope Francis of care, love, inclusion and celebration of our common humanity here in this Diocese of Parramatta, Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

“This Street Feast is an attempt to create a sense of community and belonging, no matter where we are in our life journey, no matter what situation we find ourselves – it’s the bond of our common humanity that binds us all together,” he said.