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| A beacon of hope: St Merkorious Charity Opens $9 million distribution centre and community garden |
** “Let this day mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to our community and to those who are struggling.” – Paula Nicolas ***
“It’s a promise – a promise that nobody in our community should have to go hungry.” – Jason Yat-Sen Li, MP ***
“It’s a true blessing to have you as part of our local community.” – Cr Rachelle Harika
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A BEACON OF HOPE: St Merkorious Charity Opens $9 million distribution centre and community garden
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: Community leaders, government officials, and supporters gathered in late June to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new St Merkorious Charity (SMC) Distribution Centre and Community Garden in Strathfield, Sydney. The event marked a significant milestone for the charity, which has grown from humble beginnings into a vital lifeline for thousands of people facing food insecurity. The event’s MC was Mr Farid Frangieh, who welcomed the attendees and emphasised the estimated 4000 hot meals the foundation provides weekly. Keynote speakers included Paula Nicholas, the founder and president of St Merkorious Charity, Strathfield MP Jason Yat-Sen Li and Canterbury-Bankstown Councillor Rachelle Harika who represented the Federal Leader of the House Tony Burke. Member for Reid Ms Sally Sitou MP. The following are edited extracts of the event.
PAULA NICOLAS
The founder and president of St Merkorious Charity, Paula Nicolas, opened the event with a heartfelt speech, addressing the audience of dignitaries, sponsors, volunteers, and community members.
“I would like to welcome our major sponsors, Dominic Sullivan and Edwin Morgan from the PACE Foundation, Daniel Tartak from Skylife, Daniel Nicolas from Desk Australia, and Diaa Shaker from Terra Ferma,” Paula said, acknowledging the key contributors to the charity’s success. “Welcome to Biz Masters, our President Helen Maguire, and all the BNI members who have supported us along the way.”
Paula emphasised the charity’s focus on addressing food insecurity and empowering the community. “This facility will allow us to serve hundreds more meals each day, ensuring that no one in our community goes to bed hungry. With increased storage and kitchen facilities, we will be able to offer more nutritious options that foster health and well-being,” she explained.
She also highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving the charity’s mission. “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the New South Wales Government for their generous support through the grant awarded to this project. Their belief in our vision has not only provided us with the necessary resources but has also inspired us to strive for excellence in our mission.”
Paula acknowledged others who played a key role in the project. “Thank you to Leia Jo from Collaborate for their expertise and guidance throughout the application process. Your dedication and professionalism played a crucial role in helping us articulate our goals and secure the funding we needed. I would also like to acknowledge the project consultants who have been the driving force behind the successful realisation of this project.”
She concluded by recognising the charity’s volunteers and committees. “To the board, committees, and staff who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to fruition; your dedication, passion, and commitment to our cause have been nothing short of inspiring. You have pooled your talents and resources, navigating challenges and celebrating victories along the way.”
JASON YAT-SEN LI, MP
Jason Yat-Sen Li, the Member for Strathfield, delivered a speech on behalf of the NSW Chris Minns, highlighting the project’s significance.
“This project is not just about feeding people’s bodies; it’s about feeding their spirits and strengthening our community,” he said. “I would like to acknowledge the founder of this vision, Paula Nicolas, as well as her husband, Danny Nicolas. Paula is someone truly special, and St Merkorious Charity is a manifestation of her values and her commitment to helping others.”
Yat-Sen Li underscored the importance of government collaboration with community organisations. “Government can’t do everything, but we’re most effective when we back people in the community, when we understand the talent that’s already there and give them the resources to scale,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the broader impact of the charity. “This initiative represents everything we aim to achieve with Wellbeing Strathfield. It’s about building a healthier, happier, and more connected community. The New South Wales Government is proud to support this $9 million project, which will undoubtedly change countless lives.”
Yat-Sen Li took the time to personally thank other key figures present at the event. “I would like to acknowledge Father Bishoy from St Merkorious Church Roads for his support. It’s always wonderful to see the support of the local church as part of this mission. I also want to thank Councillor Benjamin Cai, Deputy Mayor of Strathfield Council, Councillor John Paul Baladi, Mayor of Strathfield, and Councillor Rachelle Harika for their support. Your contributions make a tremendous difference.”
He concluded by reflecting on the importance of scaling grassroots initiatives. “Great organisations often begin with one person and a simple idea, and that’s exactly what Paula did. She started by cooking meals in her kitchen for those in need. What we see today is the result of her leadership and her drive to make a difference.”
RACHELLE HARIKA
Cr. Rachelle Harika, the Deputy Mayor of Canterbury-Bankstown spoke about the charity’s extraordinary impact on the community.
“Feeding up to 4,000 people per week is truly remarkable,” she said. “It’s a testament to the dedication, compassion, and tireless work of Paula and Danny Nicolas. It’s a true blessing to have them as part of our local community.”
Harika also highlighted the importance of involving young people in the charity’s work. “It’s inspiring to see students from local schools, such as Strathfield Girls High School, actively supporting the charity. Thank you to Mechel Pikoulas, the Principal of Strathfield Girls and an OAM recipient, for encouraging your students to get involved. This is about fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion in the next generation.”
She acknowledged the voluntary nature of the charity’s efforts. “It’s important to remember that this is entirely voluntary work. The time, energy, and passion that Paula, Danny, and their team dedicate to this cause is unparalleled,” Harika said.
Harika also took the time to recognise other dignitaries present. “I would like to thank Sally Sitou, MP for Reid, for her ongoing support of St Merkorious Charity. I also want to acknowledge Jane Madden, Associate Director from the Premier’s Department, for attending today and for her contributions to this initiative.”
In her concluding remarks, Harika expressed her gratitude and admiration for the charity’s work. “Congratulations to Paula and Danny Nicolas on this wonderful initiative. Your work is a shining example of selfless service, and we are so grateful to you for everything you do for our community.”
A future of hope and resilience
The St Merkorious Charity’s new distribution centre and community garden are set to transform the way the organisation serves the community. With expanded facilities, the charity will not only provide more meals but also create opportunities for training, collaboration, and empowerment.
As Paula Nicolas said, “This building symbolises more than just a facility. It is a commitment to addressing food insecurity and creating lasting change.”
With the support of government, sponsors, and volunteers, St Merkorious Charity continues to inspire hope and foster resilience in those who need it most. |
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