Fresh Meals, Fresh Start at Fletcher Street Cottage

How a New Fridge and Freezer Are Supporting Byron’s Most Vulnerable

June 11, 2025
Kate Love
Fresh Meals, Fresh Start at Fletcher Street Cottage

At Fletcher Street Cottage, food is about so much more than nutrition - it’s about connection, dignity and hope. Thanks to a generous donation from the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation, we now have a brand new fridge and freezer helping us serve more people with care each week.

This much-needed upgrade allows us to safely store more fresh produce and ingredients for our thriving Breakfast Space - where we’re currently preparing and serving around 50 meals every morning - and for our new Women’s Afternoon program.

Steve Strang, Breakfast Coordinator at Fletcher Street Cottage, says:

“The new fridge and freezer have made a huge difference already. We can now store a greater variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and dairy, which means we’re offering more nutritious and varied meals for our guests. And when you’re starting your day from a place of hardship, a fresh, warm meal can make all the difference.”

The impact of this simple but vital equipment extends beyond breakfast. It also supports our Women’s Afternoon program, which offers a safe, women-only space every week for those facing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship.

Maddi Powell, Assistant Manager and Community Support Worker, adds:

“Our afternoon teas are an important part of creating a welcoming environment for women. Being able to serve fresh food is not only practical, but also about showing care and helping women feel valued and supported when they walk through our doors.”

From breakfast to afternoon tea, this new equipment is already helping us serve the community with greater quality and care.

Thank you to the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation for helping us nourish both body and spirit at Fletcher Street Cottage.