Celebrating Culture & Connection
23 March 2026 Hits:0
Matt’s Place is about far more than serving a meal. It is a place where meaningful connections are formed and where people experience a genuine sense of belonging. These connections are vital in helping combat loneliness and social isolation in our community.
According to the City of Kingston’s Public Health and Wellbeing Survey, 21 per cent of respondents reported experiencing loneliness.
One of the aims of Matt’s Place is to help reduce this statistic by creating a welcoming community where people feel seen, valued and included.
In a recent guest survey, 96 per cent of respondents reported feeling more socially connected and less isolated as a result of attending Matt’s Place. Guests described the program as a safe and welcoming space where dignity is respected, and everyone is treated with kindness.
Moments like our recent Chinese New Year celebration highlight the heart of what Matt’s Place is all about. Guests of Chinese heritage were invited to help prepare the meal, sharing their culture and traditions with the wider community. The kitchen was filled with laughter, conversation and collaboration as volunteers and guests cooked together.
There was a real sense of joy and pride, and everyone enjoyed the delicious food that was shared.
Celebrating different cultures in this way not only enriches the Matt’s Place experience but also strengthens the sense of belonging for everyone gathered around the table.
