Combatting the Loneliness Epidemic, One Meal at a Time

At Alex Makes Meals, we believe that food is not just about sustenance—it’s about connection, care, and community. That’s why, with the generous support of the Aged Persons Welfare Foundation, we’re proud to launch the Fresh Connection Program. Over the next year, this initiative will deliver 13,000 sit-down meals to vulnerable older adults across Melbourne, bringing people together and tackling the growing epidemic of loneliness.

Addressing Loneliness and Food Security

Community Connection is one of the largest factors in an individual’s wellbeing

Loneliness has become one of the most pressing issues for older Australians. Combined with the challenges of food insecurity, many individuals find themselves isolated, hungry, and disconnected from their communities.

The Fresh Connection Program bridges this gap by offering not just high-quality, nutritious meals, but also a space for social interaction. These sit-down dinners are designed to nourish both body and soul, providing opportunities for older adults to connect with others, build friendships, and rediscover a sense of belonging.

Building Community Through Food

The Fresh Connection Program brings people together at trusted, welcoming locations throughout Melbourne, including:

	•	Railway Neighbourhood House: A hub for shared meals and laughter.

	•	Cranbourne Food Truck: Bringing nutritious meals directly to local communities.

	•	Thornbury Church of Christ: A warm and inclusive space for connection.

	•	The Kindness Community: A beacon of care and support for those in need.

These locations aren’t just meal sites—they’re gathering places where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and connections are made.

13,000 Meals, 13,000 Opportunities

With the support of the Aged Persons Welfare Foundation, the Fresh Connection Program will deliver 13,000 fresh, nutritious meals over the next year. That’s 13,000 opportunities to reduce loneliness, strengthen community ties, and provide the support that vulnerable older adults deserve.

The meals are crafted with care, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of nutrition and taste. But the real impact lies in the moments of connection that happen around the table—smiles, conversations, and the comfort of knowing that no one has to face their challenges alone.

A Full Year of Fresh Connections

The Fresh Connection Program kicks off in October 2024 with a robust schedule of dinners:

• Weekly gatherings at Railway Neighbourhood House.

• Regular visits from the Cranbourne Food Truck.

• Monthly dinners at Thornbury Church of Christ and The Kindness Community.

This consistent schedule ensures that older adults can rely on these events not only for a warm meal but also for the comfort and companionship that come with it.

Join the Fresh Connection Movement

The Fresh Connection Program is made possible by the unwavering support of the Aged Persons Welfare Foundation, but its success depends on the entire community. By volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, you can help us make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable older adults.

Together, we’re proving that a meal can be much more than just food—it can be a connection, a comfort, and a lifeline.

Visit Alex Makes Meals to learn more about the Fresh Connection Program, get involved, or support our mission to fight hunger and isolation in Melbourne.