Brandon, a student currently completing his Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) Certificate II in Hospitality training, recently volunteered at Comfort Kitchen, HBNC’s weekly community meal. Comfort Kitchen offers free food and a safe space for locals to connect.

Brandon said his experience was fantastic. He helped the team with food preparation and serving, and had a great time doing it. He said it was busy and a lot of fun.

SQW, the program Brandon is enrolled in, is all about providing at-risk jobseekers with the skills they need to successfully enter the workforce. Through the Hospitality Training Program, SQW offers participants individually-tailored support, wrap-around services, and a range of skills to help them land a job and start a meaningful career.

Comfort Kitchen is a self-funded initiative that relies on the generous support of local individuals and businesses. The weekly meal provides a much-needed space for community members to come together and connect over a shared meal, breaking down the barriers of social isolation.

Over 90 guests were at Comfort Kitchen last week, looked after by wonderful volunteers including Brandon. Guests were also treated to an amazing performance by Scotty Angeles as they ate. Donations are always welcome to ensure that this amazing service continues.

Find out more about SQW here and Comfort Kitchen here.