With the cost of living spiralling out of control, people in need are turning to local businesses for a helping hand.
Grill’d and St Vincent De Paul Society (Vinnies) are answering that demand via their City Support Dinners initiative.
On the first Tuesday of every month, Grill’d closes six Grill’d CBD restaurants from 5pm to provide a meal to those doing it tough in CBD areas.
Key locations include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and a newly-added Canberra restaurant.
The monthly events create a safe space for people experiencing disadvantages to eat in a public place, enjoy a meal and other people’s company in dignity.
The City Support Dinners began at Grill’d’s Southern Cross store in Melbourne in March 2022 before expanding nationally and has just reached a major milestone of providing well over 10,000 meals across multiple states.
Grill’d Relish Members (Grill’d’s loyalty program) have also proactively donated 142,033 meals to someone in need via the ‘8 and Donate’ initiative to St Vincent De Paul Society’s food services nationally.
Victoria’s Head of Vinnies Specials Works, Ms Melissa Walton, said it was heartening to see businesses like Grill’d taking the lead to support people in need.
“One of the most simple and powerful things we see across multiple support services here at Vinnies is the transformative power of human contact,” Ms Walton said.
“The Grill’d team has made a tangible commitment to not only give food – to people whose meals can be few and far between but to open its restaurant doors to allow them to dine in comfort and dignity.
“This week, we are proud to celebrate a 10,000+ meal milestone, but the true human impact of this initiative is immense and immeasurable.”
Grill’d CEO Adam Stapleton is now asking all businesses to do what they can to support vulnerable community members.
“We proudly open our doors with the hope of making a difference, but it’s only scratching the surface.
“We know the current economic challenges, but we’re urging all businesses, big or small, to connect with Vinnies and contribute in any way possible,” Mr Stapleton said.
To explore corporate engagement or corporate volunteering opportunities for St Vincent de Paul Society, please email corporate@svdp-vic.org.au.
