Chaplain Debbie’s Kitchen of Kindness

Chaplain Debbie, along with students from her special needs school, are making a big impact in their local community by preparing and serving meals to those in need. For the children, the experience has taught them invaluable lessons in teamwork, empathy, and building their self-confidence.

“I’ve seen the children mature through the experience,” Debbie smiled.

“When I first started, the school had just come out of lockdown, and there weren’t many opportunities for the kids to be out doing things. For them, it was about learning to deal with other people they don’t normally interact with.”

Each week at the local Salvation Army, as the students chop, stir and serve, they’re not just learning the art of cooking but also how to bless and give back to those who are struggling.

One crucial lesson Debbie emphasises is the importance of making everyone who comes in feel welcome, without judgement.

“I’ve talked to the children about making people feel at ease and welcome when they come in. Saying hello, opening the door and asking ‘how can I help you?’ are all really important.”

But amidst the lessons and acts of kindness, there’s also plenty of laughter and joy.

Debbie and the kids share jokes and they even have a “music appreciation time” on the way to and from the Salvation Army, listening to their favourite songs together.

“Fun is really important,” Debbie explained. “I approach everything with fun, I think they learn better that way.”

In between the fun, Debbie encourages the students to reflect on their experiences, asking them to think about one challenge they faced in the kitchen, one new thing they did and what they enjoyed doing most that day.

For Debbie, it’s more than just cooking meals. It’s about serving up blessings, one dish at a time – both to the students she works with and to those in her community who need an extra helping hand.

To keep this vital work going, visit su.org.au/donate