Open Doors and Open Hearts at Matt’s Place
27 August 2024 Hits:0
Student Grace O’Shea interviews three Matt’s Place Guests and discovers how they found a nurturing friendship and support.
Community member Jill and her companions, Caroline and Chris, greatly appreciate the support of thoughtful volunteers at Matt’s Place community meals program. According to them, the best part about Matt’s Place is “seeing and communicating with the volunteers.” Today, I interviewed these three ladies with the intention of gathering their experience at Matt’s Place and hearing from them the significance it holds in their hearts.
At Matt’s Place, guests can enjoy a delicious two-course meal and meaningful social interaction with other community members.
For dessert today, lemon drizzle cake, pavlova, and chocolate ganache with cream are on the menu —a difficult choice to make.
When asked about the benefits of attending, the women explained that the program “gives you company and conversation” and is “a place to look forward to.” Jill notes that the volunteers “really put themselves out so we enjoy ourselves,” and on special occasions, she says there’s “always a little extra something on the table, like a rose or flower.”
As a vegetarian, Jill feels at ease knowing there will be something she can enjoy. Volunteers are “very accommodating” and keen to offer you a hot drink or one of the many sweet treats from the morning tea baskets they carry around.
Jill fondly recalls a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, when green serviettes were placed on the tables to mark the event. Her face warms at the memory. These are just a couple of the little things that, combined, have an enormous impact on the guests.
Across from Jill and to my left, Caroline adds, “The volunteers here have incredible memories.”
“They remember I have a weak black tea with sugar.” She chuckles, and there is a collective nod around the table.
Of the three, Chris has been attending Matt’s Place the longest. She’s been coming for three years, and in the last two, she’s met Jill and Caroline.
There’s support for everyone in the lovely communal atmosphere of Matt’s Place. Inside, you’ll find people from all walks of life and vital companionship in times of need.
Providing a welcoming, supportive environment where attendees feel cared for and worthy is the outcome Matt’s Place strives for.
“Matt’s Place strives to provide a place that is welcoming and has the comforts of home,” remarks the General Manager of Bayside Community Care, Sandra Cavallo. “When times are tough or perhaps we are feeling lonely, we want to know someone cares, that is the feeling we aim to create at Matt’s Place.”
Matt’s Place community meals program operates every Tuesday at Chelsea from 10.45am-1pm and every Thursday at Cheltenham from 10.30am-1pm.
