Luncheon Club
On 1 June 2008, BGF and ACON partnered to take over the management of the Luncheon Club. Established in 1993 by Carole Ann King, the Luncheon Club serves warm, nutritious meals in a friendly atmosphere twice a week to people living with HIV, as well as providing them with basic food supplies through the Larder.
“I’m very proud to have established a service that so many people have needed over the years,” said Carole Ann King. “I have now asked ACON and BGF to take over the Luncheon Club because they have the resources and capacity to maintain essential services to these very marginalised people in our community.”
Existing Luncheon Club services such as the Monday and Wednesday lunches and the Larder are continuing. BGF and ACON staff have worked closely with Luncheon Club volunteers and clients to offer a wider range of menu choices, increase the range of groceries available through the Larder and improve the look of the room to make it more appealing. As a result of these initiatives, an increasing number of clients are using these important services.
“It is a great thing for BGF and ACON to partner on an important project such as this,” said BGF’s CEO Bev Lange. ”BGF already works with many people at the Luncheon Club and, together with ACON, we can continue the wonderful support that they have become accustomed to.”
BGF and ACON are currently undertaking a review of how to ensure these services for PLWH can be sustained in the long term.
If you'd like to make a donation to or fundraise for the Luncheon Club, please click here.
“I am reserved, self -conscious and pretty much low key in character but I’m always comforted by the company at the Luncheon Club. No judgements are made and everyone is welcome. Soup, main course and dessert are on the menu made by tireless volunteers which I enjoy and appreciate. Books, magazines, CDs and videos have been generously donated and are offered freely to all who attend. There are also times when I need basic grocery provisions so I get help from The Larder. For me, the Luncheon Club is a hang-out with no hang ups.”
Amos Kitiona, BGF client
