Mission Champion Kathryn Elizabeth

On Kathryn Elizabeth’s very first shift at the Dining Hall, she knew it was the right place to volunteer.

“Straight away I realised; this is important work, being done well, by people who really care,” Kathryn says.

Kathryn had recently moved to Melbourne from Sydney and was still reeling from the shock of witnessing people sleeping rough next to expensive Bentley motorcars on the streets of Sydney’s Kings Cross.

“It is infuriating to see, right there in your face, that somebody’s car is effectively more important than someone’s life,” Kathryn says.

After asking around Melbourne about a charity working with some of the most vulnerable people of our community, Kathryn heard about Sacred Heart Mission and signed up for her first shift.

Almost two years on Kathryn remains a regular volunteer for our Meals Program as well as at our Women’s House. Her mission; create a welcoming space for those who need it most and brighten their days with small acts of kindness.

“Things that are so simple, like a warm coffee, can literally transform someone’s day,” she says.

“Maybe you’re going through a really hard time. The gesture of a warm cup of tea is the first way we can show we care – giving someone that is so lovely.”

Working as a freelance writer, Kathryn enjoys the flexibility volunteering at the Mission allows and plans on staying with the Mission for as long as she can.

“The thing is, I just want to help,” she says. “The social workers are so good at what they do, and sometimes what’s really needed is someone to turn up and peel potatoes and serve a good coffee. I’m so happy to be that person. I feel so grateful to be part of the Mission”.

You’ll find Kathryn serving breakfast or lunch at the Women’s House on Tuesdays, or behind the barista machine at the Dining Hall Meals Program on Wednesdays. You might even bump into her at the St Kilda op shop, which she regularly peruses for its latest in pre-loved goods.

The Sacred Heart Mission Meals Program provides hearty, nutritious meals 365 days of the year to hundreds of people who are experiencing homelessness, social disadvantage or isolation. It is a program that does far more than feed people. It also provides opportunities for people to reconnect to and develop a sense of community and belonging.