Supporting dignity, connection and nourishment in St Kilda

For more than 20 years, Kehilat Nitzan has quietly built something extraordinary in Melbourne’s south - a place where people are not only fed, but truly welcomed and seen.

Each Tuesday evening at Alma Park, the Kehilat Nitzan Tikkun Olam Food Van transforms a corner of the park into a warm and welcoming community space. Volunteers lay out picnic rugs and folding chairs, serve freshly prepared kosher meals, and most importantly, sit down to connect.

For the 50 to 100 guests who attend each week, this gathering is far more than a meal.

Many live alone, some are experiencing homelessness, while others rely on subsidised housing. Most are doing it tough - financially, socially, and often with complex health challenges. For many, the food van is the one constant in their week.

One Lodge member who attended a recent service night reflected that he was struck by the social interaction volunteers have with the guests and with the festive and very happy atmosphere at the food van.

Debra Korman, Kehilat Nitzan Food Van Project Coordinator, says the evening feels like a social gathering where the participants can feel connected to a community.

“We pride ourselves on our chatting with the guests…really sitting down with them and checking in on them, finding out how their week has been and how they are coping with life. On Tuesday nights I love watching this community that we have built - the wonderful volunteers and guests all enjoying each other’s company and sharing their week. For many guests we are the one constant and support in their lives as few have family or friends."

A grant that goes further

With support from Freemasons Foundation Victoria and Middle Park Lodge No. 206, the program has been able to extend its impact through the distribution of $50 grocery vouchers. These vouchers allow guests to purchase fresh, nutritious food at a time when it is becoming increasingly unaffordable, and relieve pressures from conundrums like being forced to decide between buying food or paying for essential medication.

A night to remember

At a recent “voucher night”, 70 guests received $50 grocery vouchers, with additional vouchers distributed the following week to those unable to attend. The response was immediate and deeply felt - some guests were visibly emotional. For many, the support meant they could finally afford groceries they would normally go without - fresh vegetables, quality protein, and essential household items.

There is impact beyond the shopping bag too - in the conversations shared over dinner and the simple but powerful act of being acknowledged.

“[The Freemasons] kindness has offered dignity, relief and practical assistance to individuals and families doing it tough, and has strengthened the spirit of care within our community.”