A Salvation Army officer in Maroubra uses a BBQ and coffee trailer to support residents in one of the city’s disadvantaged neighbourhoods by offering free sausage sizzles and services that are helping people get back on their feet.
Community Outreach with a Purpose
Lieutenant Keven Williams, who serves with the Salvation Army Eastern Beaches Corps, brings his BBQ and coffee trailer every second Tuesday to Lexington Place, a public housing estate in South Maroubra.
The trailer, which features a BBQ, coffee and slushie machines, and other amenities, allows him and a team of volunteers to connect with residents in a community setting. Mr Williams describes this mission as a response to his faith, seeing it as a way to provide comfort and practical help to those struggling with issues like financial hardship and addiction.
The trailer and free food events are part of a broader community support network established by Randwick City Council. The council reached out in 2021, offering to collaborate with the Salvation Army on services for local residents, which Mr Williams says felt like an answer to prayers he had been making since 2020.
At first, the team focused on building trust with locals, who Mr Williams notes were often hesitant to accept help due to past experiences. Over time, however, many have started attending chapel services and using additional support services provided by the Eastern Beaches Corps.
Lives Changed by Service
Volunteer Kelly-Ann is one of the locals whose life was changed by the Salvation Army’s support. Once homeless and battling with addiction, Kelly-Ann turned her life around after a health scare, deciding to quit alcohol and pursue a more stable life.
Now, six months sober, she helps run the coffee machine at the fortnightly events, where she often makes hot drinks for children and chats with residents. Kelly-Ann credits the Salvation Army for giving her a purpose and helping her find faith, and she says she now looks forward to helping others in situations like the one she faced.
Rod, another volunteer, had a similar transformation. He initially came to the Eastern Beaches Corps for a free meal, but the warmth and support he found encouraged him to return and connect with others in the community. His involvement with the group ultimately lifted him out of a period of depression and has led him to become a Senior Soldier in the Salvation Army.
Today, Rod assists Mr Williams with cooking at the BBQ events, enjoying the chance to give back to a community that helped him during a tough time.
Training for the Future
Mr Williams, who became a Salvation Army officer after a low point in his own life, says his training for this role has been challenging but rewarding. He says he has seen not only personal growth but also positive changes in those he serves.
Mr Williams hopes that the BBQ trailer will continue to be a valuable resource for community building and support in Maroubra.
Published 8-Nov-2024