A new five-metre mural provides privacy and a warm welcome for clients of the Gordon Community Centre, which provides emergency food relief to over 300 individuals a month, a number that continues to rise.

GCC Coordinator, Rose Flintoft, said the team of volunteers and Anglicare staff who run the service, in partnership with the Lanyon Valley Anglican Church, work hard to build trust with the vulnerable community members who come to them for assistance. However, until recently, this was made more difficult by a lack of privacy.

“The pantry entrance and courtyard were open and could be viewed from other areas of the community space”, said Rose. “We felt it was important to find a way to offer more privacy.”  

With that in mind, the team developed the concept of creating a five-metre-long mural and separating wall. Rose approached local artist, Tracy Hall, who generously offered her time and creativity to the project.

“I was happy to offer my creative support”, said Tracy. “This is a perfect example of community resources meets community need.”

Providing separation between the food pantry and other areas of the centre, the mural is the first thing participants see as they enter, providing a bright, colourful welcome, along with a greater feeling of security.

“I have already noticed people are more relaxed,” said Rose. “It puts a smile on people’s faces and breaks down barriers, as it is a great talking point.” 

The project was generously supported by local community members and businesses. The Erindale Vikings Group donated $1,500 towards materials, mother and daughter team Teena and Emily Bacon volunteered by helping to paint, while Tracy donated her talents in designing and drawing the image.

“The team at Gordon put a lot of kindness into everything they do,” said Tracy. “Creating a large art mural depicting the word ‘kindness’ is the perfect demonstration of community spirit and compassion at the heart of the centre.”

Located adjacent to the centre, social enterprise café Little Luxton has joined in the fun by creating a colouring-in sheet of the mural. A dollar from every coffee sold at Little Luxton is donated to help support the GCC.

For more information on the GCC or to donate to any of Anglicare’s emergency relief services, visit www.anglicare.com.au or call 02 6232 2488.