BETWEEN 50 and 75 people visit the Uniting Church hall in Anson Street each Wednesday to enjoy a low-priced hot meal at the Mustard Tree Cafe.
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The cafe is held each week for those who are financially disadvantaged or are seeking companionship, a hearty meal and a bit of entertainment.
Parish assistant Sally Johnson says there is a band of between 17 and 24 dedicated volunteers who source, cook and serve the meals each week, but most are aged 80 years or older, so younger volunteers would be welcome to keep the service running.
“We don’t discourage volunteers from outside of the Uniting Church,” Mrs Johnson said.
“They are mostly older people so I think they would appreciate some extra help.
“I know the church is looking to have this as a service to the community for many years to come.”
Mustard Tree Cafe volunteer Dick Dutton has been helping since the cafe started and welcomed younger volunteers coming on board.
“I think the people we have currently are finding it harder to do what they’ve been doing for the past eight years or so,” he said.
Mr Dutton said the cafe was a worthwhile service and for some people it was their only social activity each week.
The Mustard Tree Cafe runs each Wednesday during school terms from noon to 1pm and will reopen on July 15, with meals costing $8 each.
tanya.marschke@fairfaxmedia.com.au