Sydney community celebrate as one at eighth annual Street Feast

Hundreds gathered on the steps of St Mary’s Cathedral to celebrate community over a shared meal thanks to another successful Sydney Street Feast.

Sydney Street Feast: Created in conjunction with, and sponsored by the Sydney Catholic Archdioceses, PAYCE Foundation, St. Merkorious Charity, St Vincent de Paul Society and Thread Together.

The eighth annual gathering proved ongoing pressures of cost of living have pushed more people into extreme living conditions.

Those struggling to make ends meet or living on the streets had an opportunity to not only share a meal but access a slew of essential services.

Clothing from Thread Together hung out on racks for visitors to choose from, the smell of a hearty meal provided by St. Merkorious Charity filled the air, and cheery tunes performed by the Sydney Street Choir had volunteers and visitors singing and clapping along.

PAYCE Director Dominic Sullivan said this year’s event was “one of the biggest turnouts”

“It’s an opportunity to remember that there are many people struggling in this city,” he said.

“Here, we get to sit down and share a meal, share conversation, share stories.”

The Sydney Street Feast was created in response to the late Pope Francis’ call to build a more inclusive, welcoming and generous society.

This year’s theme of Signs of Hope in this Jubilee Year is supported by acts of love for the poor and vulnerable.

“There’s lots of different things happening. It’s a wonderful occasion,” Bishop Danny Meagher said.

St Merkorious Charity Founder & President Paula Nicolas said Street Feast is an opportunity to reach out to those in need.

“And if people come in and they need our services, [this event] is another point of contact,” she said.

The event featured volunteers from various agencies both serving and sharing a meal with those who gathered.

Volunteer Dan M. said it was his first time volunteering for the event and he was inspired to return next year.

“My favourite part is making friends with everyone, no matter their circumstances,” he said.

Sydney Street Feast: Created in conjunction with, and sponsored by the Sydney Catholic Archdioceses, PAYCE Foundation, St. Merkorious Charity, St Vincent de Paul Society and Thread Together.