Grant support helps Coonara provide free lunches to community

Coonara Community House's lunch program has been supported by South East Water. (Supplied)

Coonara Community House will be looking to foster social connections and teach valuable skills to their community kitchen volunteers in 2025, thanks to support from South East Water.

The community house received a 2024 South East Water Community Grant to support its community lunches. The grant will assist the group serving about 60 meals to vulnerable members of the community each week.

“With so many people in our community struggling due to cost-of-living pressure, this generous grant from South East Water is a welcome boost,” Coonara Community House Manager Sandra Romero said.

“Our program not only serves meals to those in need but also builds a stronger sense of community and belonging for those who attend.”

Established in August 1976 Coonara Community House seeks to foster a safe, supportive, and friendly environment which inspires personal confidence and empowerment for individuals. 

Based in Upper Ferntree Gully, it provides support for people who are vulnerable, socially isolated or experiencing financial difficulty by encouraging personal confidence and community participation.

South East Water’s Community Grants program funds local projects that enhance water security and knowledge, protect the environment, support vulnerable community members and help people be more active and connected.

“We’re delighted to support Coonara Community House in providing such a vital program for the local community,” South East Water General Manager Community and Stakeholder Karen Lau said.

“Coonara Community House exemplifies the impactful work that our Community Grants program is designed to empower.”

The 2025 South East Water Community Grants program opens on 17 February. For more information visit southeastwater.com.au/grants