A collaborative East Newman free food project looks to continue after the success of its initial trial period

A collaborative free food project in East Newman has come to the end of its trial period but given its success, the organisers have made plans to extend the program. The East Newman food project is a joint initiative between Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa, the Newman Women’s Shelter, and Creating Communities Australia and provides East Newman residents with a weekly dinner. General manager at KJ Tristan Cole said the project was started to address food insecurity for people living in East Newman. “The Shelter, KJ, and Creating Communities got together because we had been working on food security for the people in town and it became obvious some of the issue was about food availability,” he said. “In particular for children at night, so that was our predominant driver to start, so that we could provide some food in a safe environment.” The weekly activation is held at Train Park in East Newman and Mr Cole said the intention was to continue it, based on the positive feedback they have received. “I think we will continue it, whether it is soup in the park or in some other form,” he said. “We initially thought it was a winter thing but it looks like the need is still there.” Roughly 50 meals are provided per night and during the activation Mr Cole also delivered them to people throughout town.