How Alex Makes Meals and Nando’s Teamed Up to Make the Holidays Even More Special
This holiday season, the Alex Makes Meals (AMM) team joined forces with Nando’s to bring warmth, joy, and nourishment to those in need. Together, we hosted three memorable three-course Christmas dinners across Melbourne—at The Youth Projects in the city, Box Hill Community Bake House, and St Mary’s House of Welcome in Fitzroy. Each celebration showed the power of community, compassion, and collaboration, shining a spotlight on how food can create meaningful holiday experiences and address food insecurity.
A full hozier lane, bustling with diners for the AMM christmas lunch
Nando’s—beloved for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken—played a pivotal role in making these Christmas dinners truly special. Their generous support provided not just the delicious meals but also the festive atmosphere that turned ordinary dinners into holiday celebrations for people who might otherwise have gone without.
Three Locations, Countless Smiles
On the 18th of December, we invited Melbourne’s most in need to join us for three Christmas feasts at local community hubs:
The Youth Projects, Melbourne: Guests enjoyed a warm, inclusive setting where the holiday spirit was tangible.
Box Hill Community Bake House: A cozy, festive atmosphere helped bring the neighborhood together in celebration.
St Mary’s House of Welcome, Fitzroy: Gratitude and giving were in the air as attendees savored hearty meals and good company.
From the beautifully set tables to the thoughtful, three-course menus prepared with care, each dinner offered guests more than just nourishment; it provided a moment of belonging, dignity, and joy. Over the course of these events, we served more than 450 people, ensuring that everyone left with a satisfied belly and a brighter outlook on the holiday season.
Highlighting the Impact
For us at AMM, these Christmas dinners are a testament to the difference we can make when we work together. By collaborating with Nando’s, we were able to reach even more people at a time of year that can feel especially isolating for those who are struggling.
These meals represent far more than just sustenance—they offer companionship, a sense of community, and the reassurance that someone cares. This sense of connection and dignity is at the heart of food relief, which is why events like these are so crucial.
Reflecting on the initiative, AMM founder Alex Dekker noted, “Our partnership with Nando’s highlights just how powerful collaboration can be. It’s never just about the food—it’s about creating meaningful moments and reminding people they’re not alone.”
Some of our Alex Makes Meals volunteers
Looking Ahead
Encouraged by the success of these Christmas dinners, our plans for the future are even more ambitious. Partnerships like ours with Nando’s and Youth Projects will remain central to our mission to combat food insecurity in Melbourne and beyond. By working together, we aim to create more programs that foster a sense of community and deliver tangible relief where it’s most needed.
To all our supporters—donors, partners, volunteers, and everyone cheering us on—thank you. Your belief in our mission fuels everything we do. And to Nando’s, your generosity made the holiday season brighter for so many people.
We’ve proven that when compassion meets purpose, incredible things can happen. Here’s to more impactful partnerships and brighter futures for all.
Join Us in Making a Difference
If this story resonates with you, we invite you to join the Alex Makes Meals community. Whether through volunteering, donations, or new partnerships, your involvement helps us continue our vital food relief work.
Visit our website to learn more about our initiatives, explore volunteer opportunities, and see how you can contribute. Together, we can make the holidays—and every day—a little more special for everyone.
