ST Benedict's Primary School, Mango Hill, partnered with the Mango Hill Tavern to provide 1000 free meals to help local families doing it tough through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over two weeks, tavern staff created the meals which school staff helped pass on to families.
St Benedict's Assistant Principal for Religious Education, Ellen Locke, said the community initiative came about in response to a call out from the Queensland Government to build an “army" to care for all Queenslanders during the coronavirus outbreak.
The Care Army was about bringing Queenslanders together to lend a hand to seniors and people most at-risk during the pandemic, while continuing to practice social distancing techniques.
“The Benedictine charism of community drives all that we do, this is no more important during times of crisis," Ellen said.
“It is our community spirit, resourcefulness and support for each other that will ultimately get us through this very challenging time," she said.
Ellen said the school staff had been thinking about what a St Benedict's Primary 'Care Army' could look like.
They put the idea to parents.
“We wanted to see if they could think of a way for our community to come together to support each other through the Covid-19 pandemic," Ellen said.
“One of our families, Brigette and Julian Kelly, who have connections to pubs and clubs through their work, secured 1000 free meals donated to our community from the Mango Hill Tavern and their owners Australian Venue Company.
“They wanted to connect with, and support our community, by providing meals as a gesture of goodwill and hope at this time.
Ellen said it was the most amazing and generous offer from Mango Hill Tavern.
She said the school put a call out to the wider community to see who might be interested in receiving the free meals.
“We gave out almost 500 meals in the first week and another 500 more in the second week."
“We hope it might provide families with a bit of joy and relief at this time."
Principal Patrick Davis said the free meals was a great community initiative.
“We are so happy to connect with the wider community in a way that supports the wellbeing of all of our families."
“We are also grateful for the support and generosity of the Australian Venue Group who made this possible for our community," he said.
The Esson family (from left) Darcy, Carla, and James, appreciated the generous
donation from St Benedict's School and the Mango Hill Tavern