Paula Nicolas honoured for transformative charity work

Paula Nicolas, the inspirational founder of St Merkorious Charity, has been awarded the prestigious Dempsey Medal by the Archdiocese of Sydney in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to supporting vulnerable communities.

The honour celebrates more than a decade of service that began humbly in her own kitchen and has grown into one of Sydney’s most impactful grassroots charities.

Medal winner Paula Nicolas says compassion must be lived every day.

Starting with home-cooked meals for people in need, Paula’s commitment expanded rapidly as demand for support surged.

Today, St Merkorious distributes more than 4,000 meals every week, delivering fresh, nutritious food to families, seniors, people experiencing homelessness, newly arrived refugees and anyone struggling to make ends meet.

The Archbishop of Sydney, Anthony Fisher OP, presented the Dempsey Medal at the recent Sydney Street Feast.

Paula said she never expected recognition, believing instead that compassion must simply be “lived every day.”

She described the honour as “a tribute to the volunteers, supporters and community who make this work possible.”

The PAYCE Foundation, a long-time supporter of St Merkorious, congratulated Paula on the accolade.

PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan said Paula’s achievement reflects an extraordinary personal mission that has transformed lives across Sydney.

“Paula embodies the very best of community leadership,” Mr Sullivan said.

“She built St Merkorious from her kitchen and, through sheer determination, has created a charity that delivers dignity, hope and practical support to thousands of people every week.”

The PAYCE Foundation has been a long-term supporter of St Merkorious Charity.