Over the last 12 months we’ve seen a 32.9% increase in guest numbers to Soul Kitchen - a clear reflection of the rising food insecurity issues here in Australia. In the last 12 months, over 2 million Aussie households have experienced severe food insecurity, many going without food for a whole day each week. 

Hosted each Sunday at the Braybrook Community Hub, 300 Blankets hosts Soul Kitchen - a 3-course sit down dinner for people experiencing food insecurity and social isolation in the west. This Christmas ensure no one has to go without, by donating a dinner to someone in need in your local community. 

Food Insecurity in Australia

3.4m Aussie low-income households are facing worsening food insecurity - including 2m who are experiencing "severe" food insecurity. Over the last 12 months these indicators have continued to increase across Australia, the worst it has been since the cost-of-living crisis began (up 5% since 2022). Resulting in households often skipping meals, reducing portion sizes and even going entire days without eating. This experience disproportionately impacts households earning less than $30k, the report even indicates that despite cost-of-living issues, households earning $95k or more are generally experiencing improved conditions. (Source: Foodbank 2024)

About Soul Kitchen

Soul Kitchen is a no charge community program, run every Sunday evening in Braybrook. Established in the community in 2018, Soul Kitchen has grown to be an important pillar of the Maribyrnong community. Operated by a dedicated team of volunteers who not only prepare an amazingly nutritious meal, but who also share this meal with those who may be struggling to make ends meet, or who are feeling socially isolated. Prepared in the kitchen of Braybrook Community Hub and served in the Braybrook Library from 6.45pm each Sunday, these nights are not only about providing food but are also an opportunity for members of the community to connect with others in a safe and respectful environment. Soul Kitchen is open to singles, couples or young families - and all are welcome.

In 2024, we recognise that as the need for food relief continues to rise, so to does the percentage of food insecure households knowing how to and accessing necessary relief - currently 47%, up 12% from 2023. These households are relying more and more on relief programs, and accessing them more often.

About 300 Blankets

300 Blankets is dedicated to supporting people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness in Victoria. We do this through the provision of consistent programs - Outreach and Soul Kitchen. Through these we ensure that all people we connect with are treated with dignity and compassion, while also looking to apply early-stage intervention for people on the path to homelessness.