Claire Clutterham (Sturt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Greek Orthodox parish of the Prophet Elias in my electorate of Sturt is home to a group of dedicated volunteers who have recognised and responded to the need in the community to support individuals and families doing it tough. Under the leadership of Father John and program coordinator Mary Bambacas, the Five Loaves program is an opportunity for volunteers to come together to connect and provide support to the community. Five Loaves was officially launched in Australia in July 2023 by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios, and the parish of the Prophet Elias commenced its activities in April 2024, making it the first church in South Australia to adopt the program, and it hasn't stopped.

This program provides support to the Lutheran Care's homelessness project, and every fortnight 600 ham and cheese sandwiches and rolls are prepared by a wonderful group of ladies and then delivered to families residing in emergency housing. I've volunteered several times with the ladies at the church and can confirm that the program is executed with military precision. The ham is folded in a particular way, and the cheese is cut just so. That means that every sandwich and roll is prepared with love, care and consideration. Each session takes only about an hour, but that's because there are so many volunteers eager to give up their time to contribute to the community. The ladies of the parish of the Prophet Elias know that small steps can make a big difference, and I congratulate them on their dedication and commitment to helping others.