Uplifting gesture of sharing a meal attracts big crowd

The Parramatta Street Feast – a call to share a meal with those battling life on the lonely fringe of society – attracted its biggest turnout yet.

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

Parramatta Street Feast – an event closing the gap with those on the margins of society.

About 150 clients enjoyed delicious food, company and wonderful entertainment, including from the Sydney Street Choir, at St Patrick’s Hall in Parramatta.

The Street Feast was created in conjunction with, and is sponsored by, the PAYCE Foundation, Paynter Dixon, St Merkorious Charity, and the Diocese of Parramatta.

Bishop Vincent Long said that in building an inclusive and welcoming society there is no better way than sharing a meal with the disadvantaged and those on the margins.

Along with Bishop Long, State Member for Parramatta Donna Davis, the Federal Member for Parramatta Andrew Charlton and the City of Parramatta’s Lord Mayor Pierre Esber attended the event.

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 simple act of sharing a meal can do, in reminding us of the need for community and social connections,” he said.