We are calling on you, our community partners and supporters, to help Healthy Cities save the ‘Cook, Chill, Chat’ program.
12 months ago, after 8 years of bringing diverse communities together to learn about and share healthy food, the funding for ‘Cook Chill Chat’ was withdrawn. At the time, many of you wrote to our Federal and State MPS, endorsing the program and supporting advocacy efforts to seek ongoing funding. Thank you for your support.
Unfortunately, funding is yet to be procured and ‘Cook Chill Chat’ facilitators have been forced to turn down requests from community health and social welfare organisations to provide this impactful program to the vulnerable and marginalised groups who need it most.
What is ‘Cook Chill Chat’?
‘Cook Chill Chat’ is a 6-week program, organised by Healthy Cities Illawarra, that brings members of our community together to cook and share a meal.
The program aims to build more inclusive, resilient and healthier communities over the preparation and enjoyment of nutritious food. It also provides an opportunity for people diverse backgrounds to improve their social skills, mental and physical health and knowledge around cooking and healthy eating.
This evidence-based, place-based and trauma-informed program has had real and measurable outcomes for hundreds of community members.
In a time marked by an increased cost of living and food insecurity, we believe that programs like ‘Cook Chill Chat’ are more important than ever.
How can you help?
Healthy Cities Illawarra is asking that local businesses and organisations add their logo to this letter, acknowledging their endorsement of ‘Cook Chill Chat’ and the request for further funding.
On receipt of your endorsement, they will publish an open letter to our decision makers to demonstrate that now is the time to invest in ‘Cook Chill Chat’.
Your endorsement and support will also be used to frame a community and corporate fundraising appeal.
As always, thank you for your continual support. We are so grateful to our wonderful community here in the Illawarra.
