School Meals that Matter

Chaplain Shyamala’s mission goes beyond filling stomachs. By partnering with local church and community organisations to fund various food-based programs at her school, she focuses on building connections with students and their families.

Shyamala understands that food can unite people when words sometimes fall short.

“My goals are to improve nutritional intake, family bonds and to teach both the parent and the young person that dinner doesn’t have to be expensive,” Shyamala explained.

Her secondary school caters to disengaged students unable to learn in mainstream environments.

“Many of these students are disengaged because of a traumatic background or lack of stability at home. Some of them are families living in public housing.”

Recognising the need for action, Shyamala enlisted the help of Oaktree Anglican Church to run a weekly dinner meal kit initiative, providing ten families in need with healthy food.

One family has been profoundly impacted by the meal kits.

“The son has a lot of mental health issues, also anger issues and heightened anxiety.”

After receiving their first meal kit, the child’s mother called Shyamala to express her gratitude. Not only does the family receive a nourishing assortment of ingredients but they also now enjoy spending quality time cooking the meal together.

The impact has spilled over into school life, with the young person opening up to Shyamala about the need for forgiveness and strategies to manage his anger.

“We’ve never met, but the mother’s become very familiar and trusting of me,” Shyamala smiled.

In addition to the meal kits, Shyamala partnered with Compass Community Care to provide delicious cafe lunches during school, complete with baguettes, slices and a juice.

“Since the beginning of the program, there’s been a rise in attendance.”

For Shyamala, being a chaplain is all about improving the wellbeing of her students – one meal at a time.

Through your support, chaplains like Shyamala are sharing God’s love in their communities. To keep this important work going, please visit su.org.au/donate