Elizabeth (Beth) Spanos has been named a 2024 Westfield Local Hero for Penrith in Sydney, New South Wales. Beth has been recognised for her service in providing nutritious meals to those in need through her volunteer work at Penrith Community Kitchen.
Westfield has awarded a community grant of $20,000 to help Beth at Penrith Community Kitchen to continue to grow their impact in the local community. Beyond simply offering food, the kitchen fosters community and combats social isolation.
“In the 25+ years we’ve operated, we’ve learnt that it’s not always hunger that drives people to us,” Beth explains. “It can also be loneliness, a lack of skill, or an inability to shop due to poor health or mobility.”
With Beth‘s support, the kitchen has recently expanded to collaborate with 12 local schools, providing pantry food and frozen meals for students to take home to family members.
Beth’s empathy and dedication stem from her own childhood experiences of community support following her mother’s passing. This personal history drives her to give back and support others in need.
“My belief is that if you can avoid going hungry, your outlook can change. And if you have someone who will listen to and care for you, even if it’s only briefly, you can feel safe. And that’s how the world can become a little brighter,” Beth says.
Under her guidance, Penrith Community Kitchen serves 500 people weekly and impacts many more by addressing hunger and fostering a supportive community environment.
Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities. The finalist with the most community votes is the Westfield Penrith Local Hero for 2024, receiving a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent. Penrith Community Kitchen will use the grant to provide food to 12 local schools, ensuring no child goes hungry.
Source: Westfield.
