(Community Recognition Statement, 9 June 2021, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament) 

On behalf of the Sydney Electorate I congratulate Canice's Kitchen at St Canice's Catholic Church in Elizabeth Bay on their rapid COVID response and commitment to supporting vulnerable people in Sydney's inner-city.

Within a few weeks of the pandemic, Canice's Kitchen had transformed their daily onsite program with food, friendship and support into a COVID-safe food collection service made possible by volunteers from remote kitchens. By the reopening in February this year, this amazing team had distributed 190,000 food items from the church gate. Canice's Kitchen have now returned to welcoming over 120 guests on site each day. Community members enjoy delicious meals produced onsite and have access to vaccines, mental health support, life coaching, employment training, legal clinics, showers and clothing. I was honoured to join the Canice's Kitchen team for the grand opening of the new dedicated library for Sydney's street community and see over 2,000 titles on offer for visitors to enjoy. The library is a valuable addition to a service that fosters connection, conversation and community. I am proud to have Canice's Kitchen in my electorate and commend their continued holistic service to our community.