Cooking and meal preparation
About the opportunity.
We greatly appreciate the valuable assistance of the volunteers in ensuring the smooth functioning of our kitchen area and guaranteeing we are fully prepared to meet the needs of our service. With the responsibility of catering to over 300 individuals who rely on our support. It becomes essential to have a well-maintained kitchen and ample food preparations ready for the next day.
Who we are looking for.
We are seeking individuals who are dedicated to supporting our mission to support people experiencing homelessness. We ask that you possess a strong sense of responsibility and reliability. Volunteers are vital members of our team and we rely on your support to ensure the upkeep of the kitchen area and food preparation. Adherence to hygiene and safety standards are crucial, volunteers should demonstrate an understanding of proper food handling practices, cleanliness protocols and kitchen safety procedures.
Tasks
Key Aspects of the Post-Closing Cooking Sessions:
- Meal Preparation: Volunteers gather to prepare a variety of dishes. This could range from hearty stews and soups to sandwiches and salads, depending on the needs and preferences of those we serve.
- Cooking and Baking: The sessions involve cooking meals that can be easily reheated the next day, as well as baking items like breads or pastries. This ensures a diverse and appealing food selection.
- Teamwork and Community Building: These cooking sessions are also a great opportunity for volunteers to bond and work together in a relaxed, collaborative environment.
- Skill Development: Volunteers can learn new cooking skills or share their own culinary expertise, enhancing the quality and variety of food we provide.
- Efficient Resource Utilization: By preparing meals in advance, we make efficient use of our resources, including donated food items, ensuring minimal waste and maximum benefit.
- Flexible Volunteering Opportunities: These sessions offer an alternative volunteering time slot, ideal for those who may not be available during regular Tranby operating hours.
- Supporting Sustainability: Preparing food in advance helps in maintaining the sustainability of our services, ensuring that we are always ready to meet the needs of those who depend on us.
These cooking sessions are an integral part of our efforts to provide continuous support to the community. Volunteers who participate in these sessions play a crucial role in ensuring that we have high-quality, prepared meals ready for our service users every day.
Shifts
Monday to Friday 12pm - 2.30pm
We ask that volunteers make a regular commitment of 2 – 3 hours weekly, fortnightly or monthly.
Requirements.
- A commitment to completing role specific training requirements (including e-learning) is required for the role.
- Volunteering with Uniting is subject to completing the relevant role specific training and satisfactory background checks which include a National Police Check and Reference Checks. (Police Clearance applications can be organised by Uniting)
At Uniting, we value diversity and encourage applications from all sections of the community.
Homelessness
WA has the lowest rate of homelessness in Australia, but the highest number of people sleeping rough, according to data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Data shows that 1 in 4 - or 25% - of people experiencing homelessness in WA are sleeping rough – in tents, improvised shelters or out on the streets.
Our team is seeing the evidence of this every day, as demand for crisis support, accommodation and emergency relief services continues to grow.
See all the stats at https://www.abs.gov.au/.../estimating-homelessness.../2021
At Tranby Engagement Hub, we understand how challenging it can be for individuals experiencing homelessness. That's why we are committed to providing a warm and welcoming environment for adults in crisis. Our team of compassionate staff is dedicated to supporting those affected by homelessness.
We provide more than just essential services like food and showers. We also take the time to understand each individual's unique circumstances and needs, providing 1:1 support to connect them with the services that can make a real difference in their lives. Our goal is to empower people to move from crisis towards secure, long-term accommodation.
We believe in fostering a sense of community and belonging, and we welcome everyone exactly as they are. Our partnerships with visiting agencies allow us to provide even more comprehensive support, including medical, legal, counselling, and advocacy services.
But we can't do this alone. We need your help to create a more positive and supportive environment for those we serve. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant difference in someone's life. Together, we can show compassion and empathy to those who need it most and help them take steps towards a brighter future.