CK Community Hub

Posted Feb 16, 2021 in News

The CK Community Hub (formerly known as the Cottage Kitchen) came to fruition as a result of a vision held by two members of the Port Adelaide Uniting Church Parish. It commenced when it became possible to initially rent the premises that are still home to this enterprise. These premises are situated right in the heart of Port Adelaide at 169 St. Vincent Street.

The Cottage Kitchen was launched in December 1981. It was the belief of the Rev Greg Pearce that in ‘the little corner shop’ people poured out their hearts to the person behind the counter. It was initially operated by two staff and twenty volunteers and opened 9.00 am to 5.00 pm five days per week. On Thursday evenings some musical entertainment was held for patrons.

Over the years CK has been able to provide a wide variety of programs for its participants, many of whom live with the challenge of mental health issues. Photography, mosaics, computer skills, writing, pottery, cooking, banner making, jewellery, sewing, communication, health education and exercise programs, are just some of the workshops that have been available.

As well as these workshops ‘Food for Friends’ has been held once a fortnight on Thursday evenings. Like many other programs CK had to close during the COVID lockdown period. It has now re-opened with limited numbers allowed to attend and ‘Food for Friends’ is now held on the church premises as a temporary measure.

Walking groups sponsored by the Heart Foundation leave from and return to CK on Monday and Friday mornings.

CK has also provided a home for People Promoting Mental Health – a program which promotes mental health and has involved countless people with lived experience of mental illness in planning and organising a vast range of projects.

As part of its vision statement CK believes that it provides the Christian Church at street level and makes a special commitment to those who are lonely, isolated, living with disadvantage or mental health issues. An essential part of the decision-making process. This includes participants being hands on with the different chores that need to be done.

CK has been incredibly fortunate with funding over the years and it recognises the Port Adelaide Enfield Council for the grants it has received and also Community Benefit SA. It is also extremely grateful for the support and funds that the Port Adelaide Uniting Church has provided.

Next year CK will celebrate its 40^th anniversary. The present busy and ageing leadership team understand that it is essential that transitional leaders be found and trained. They would be welcome to join the team now and take on leadership roles in the future. It is essential that CK volunteers have empathy with all members of the general public including those who are living with mental health issues. Volunteers thoroughly enjoy their roles and find them life-giving.

If anyone is interested in becoming a leader or volunteer with CK Community Hub, you may contact us by email at Turn on Javascript! or Port Adelaide Uniting Church on (08) 8240 0200.

More information about CK Community Hub is on the website at this link. 

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