After facing significant hardship, including homelessness due to severe flooding in Hervey Bay, David*, a father of four, has found support and connection through the Comfort Kitchen program.

A New Zealand citizen who has lived in Australia for more than 15 years, David and his family experienced challenges that threatened their stability and wellbeing earlier this year.

Referred to the CAMS program for assistance with citizenship applications and connected to Legal Aid for ongoing court proceedings regarding legal guardianship of his daughter, David has been actively engaging with the support services available to him.

To help ease financial pressures and ensure food security, David and his children regularly attend Comfort Kitchen, held every Wednesday at the Hervey Bay Community Centre.

The program provides nutritious meals in a safe, welcoming environment, while also fostering social connection and community engagement, Farzina William, Enterprise & Multicultural Manager, said.

“Comfort Kitchen is about more than just a meal. It’s about building relationships and providing support when families need it most,” Farzina said.

“For families like David’s, it offers stability, nourishment, and a sense of belonging.”

Comfort Kitchen runs every Wednesday from 4:30–5:30pm at the Hervey Bay Community Centre, 22 Charles St, Pialba.

All community members in need of a meal or company are welcome.

*Name changed for privacy.

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMFORT KITCHEN