Narre Warren Christian Church – Transit Drop-In Centre

‘All Welcome’ is the message that greets you on arrival at the Transit Drop-In Centre at Narre Warren Christian Church. And, with over 1400 people registered to pick up food, inclusivity is certainly the ethos of the centre.

“People come from all over. Because we are so close to the station we get people all the way from Frankston, Cranbourne, Berwick, Doveton and Noble Park,” said Pastor Keith, manager of the centre.

Transit runs food relief on three days; on Monday evenings there’s a free 3-course meal with groceries available; on Wednesdays, there’s a free 3-course meal at noon with groceries available; and on Thursdays, groceries are available for families with school-aged children.

With an integrated approach to assisting their guests, Transit also provides services such as Orange Sky Laundry, shower facilities, and twice a month a Centrelink representative attends the meal program to assist clients.

Pastor Keith notes they work closely with contacts at different homelessness organisations, helping to connect those in need with appropriate accommodation.

“This year, we’ve had about a dozen people experiencing homelessness come through and all of them have homes now.”

For Pastor Keith, Transit provides more than food.

“We provide companionship. There is a lot of very lonely people here.”

The centre is never short of people willing to help, with 110 regular volunteers helping to lend a hand each week.

“About 40% of our volunteers are ex-guests. They volunteer and pick up food. Especially if they are not currently working, they love to come and work here,” said Pastor Keith.

Find out more about Transit at www.transitoutreach.org.au