A Whirlwind Sunday of Service and Community: A Northwest Community Group Update

Sharing a Meal & Building Connections:

Our usual relaxing Sunday took an unexpected but gratifying turn! The Northwest Community Lunch brought together a smaller group of seven, including two current Musgrave Park residents and one former resident. It was heartwarming to enjoy a meal, conversation, and a sense of community. Hearing a resident express their immense gratitude for the comfort and security of a tent was a powerful reminder of the impact we make.

Repurposing Tents and Refueling Our Supplies:

After lunch, we cleaned up recently vacated tents and loaded them into the car, along with air mattresses. Our first stop was Coles Ferny Grove for groceries, followed by BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing Everton Park to purchase three new tents courtesy of the Northwest Female Fashion Fundraiser proceeds. A huge thank you once again to all who participated!

Food Rescue Mission & Supporting Other Initiatives:

Next on the agenda was Coles The Gap, where we rescued a significant amount of perfectly edible food that would otherwise have gone to waste. We then visited Musgrave Park, distributing food and water to residents. The day's generosity continued with setting up a tent for a resident who selflessly gave his own tent to someone in greater need, spending the night on the footpath rather than claiming his own shelter. Another individual received a new tent as well.

Collaboration and Community Support:

Annerley Baptist Church holds a free weekly lunch, and we proudly contributed bread to their cause. Meeting Bruce, the organizer, and learning about their mission to serve approximately 70 people was incredibly inspiring. Continuing our food deliveries, we donated fresh produce, bread, and other pantry staples to Community Plus+ West End Community House.

Responding to Individual Needs:

Following a tip via our page, we visited someone camping in a vacant lot near the river. They seemed comfortable with their location and enjoyed a breathtaking view, so we didn't push relocation. The day's surprises continued with a call from a Musgrave resident connecting us with a wonderful volunteer from Orange Sky Australia. A lady who had been walking for four days straight was able to access a shower in their mobile shower van, and we assisted in finding her temporary housing for the night.

Serendipitous Encounters & Community Spirit:

Returning to the Orange Sky van, we encountered a kind gentleman seeking a tent. Perfectly timed serendipity! We offered a choice: a portable tent he could take anywhere or a comfortable setup at Musgrave. Opting for the latter, we located a space at the increasingly populated park and assembled his new tent. His infectious enthusiasm and gratitude for his new home-away-from-home were truly heartwarming.

Building Bridges Within Our Community:

The resident who'd recently arrived at Musgrave offered to help set up the tent and look after the lady we met earlier. This instance perfectly exemplifies the strong sense of community and support present among residents. He even shared snacks with her, a heartwarming gesture of generosity.

A Day of Action & Reflection:

Ten tents erected in just three days – a testament to the constant need and our tireless efforts. Musgrave Park currently houses 30 tents, with 25 provided by Northwest Community Group. Another request for a tent tomorrow underscores the ongoing need. We've included a recent video showcasing the park in the comments below.

Deliveries & Checking In:

Ending the day, we replenished pantries at Max Chandler-Mather's office, Community Plus+ Yeronga Community Centre, and the Brunswick Hotel. We also delivered food to a resident in Morningside and checked in on a regular we support near Roma St.

Exhausted but Empowered:

Returning home exhausted at 10 pm, the countless smiles and expressions of gratitude make the physical toll absolutely worthwhile. This is what fuels our commitment – seeing the positive impact we have on the lives of so many in our community.