Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) is lending a helping hand this festive season in support of the Penrith Community Kitchen’s phenomenal efforts to provide free, nourishing meals to those in need.
WSI Chief People Officer Kirby Grattan said about two dozen airport staff were volunteering to support Penrith Community Kitchen’s annual food and hamper donation drives.
“WSI is based in one of the most vibrant, diverse and fastest growing regions in the nation. There’s a shared sense of community spirit here in which we’re proud to play a part, as it’s truly one of Western Sydney’s greatest assets,” she said.
“While we engage with our local community in many ways each week through our Experience Centre, school engagements and other social programs – we’re really pleased to be able to volunteer some of our time this month to support Penrith Community Kitchen.
“This organisation does an incredible job preparing more than 500 meals for people in need each week and they warmly welcomed us to their site to help pack hampers and prepare food, which is such a rewarding experience when you see the positive impact it can make.”
In addition to providing hundreds of meals as part of its daily service, this year Penrith Community Kitchen also launched a new “Food for Local Kids” initiative that supplies breakfast, lunch, and snack items to 11 local schools and PCYC Penrith, addressing the needs of underprivileged children who attend school without proper meals.
Penrith Community Kitchen Spokeswoman Gai Hawthorn OAM acknowledged WSI’s support of the organisation’s services in the local community.
“Penrith Community Kitchen extends our deepest gratitude to the incredible staff at Western Sydney International Airport for their outstanding generosity and support this Christmas season,” she said.
“Their time and effort in wrapping and packing hampers, along with their generous donations of non-perishable goods, have made a profound impact on our mission to support local families in need.
“This amazing show of community spirit ensures that many in our area will experience the joy and hope of the festive season. Thank you for helping us make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we are stronger and can make a difference to help ensure that no one goes hungry in Penrith.”
