About COOK4CALD.
COOK4CALD is a youth based, not for profit organisation. With a growing team of volunteers, COOK4CALD prepares and delivers culturally diverse meals for South East Melbourne.
Founded in 2020 by Ashvina De Zoysa, COOK4CALD aims to provide non-judgemental support to CALD families through food relief. Unlike other food relief supports, COOK4CALD prepares fresh, hot meals from scratch that are culturally diverse, halal and vegan friendly.
We have found that food insecurity is a major issue within the South East and we want to be the change in helping families access the support they need, without barriers or judgement.
We prepare our meals in community kitchens and deliver every meal to the door steps of our recipients, ensuring accessibility for all.
COOK4CALD uses sustainable packaging to ensure the best for the world we live in.
“COOK4CALD is my pride and joy and I could have never imagined how quickly we would grow. Being able to create a safe space for young people to learn to cook and give back to the community, is all I’ve ever dreamed of. I am grateful for my mum and grandma for always teaching me the importance of a home cooked meal, especially in times of need. Thank you for supporting our cause.”
What is the Summer Program?
Our Journey so far…
2020 - Conception
Started off as idea for once off event to aid with COVID-19 food insecurity for culturally diverse families who didn’t have access to food aid.
Dec 2020/21
Our first Summer Program. began making 15 meals and soon grew to 85. Had a team of 50 volunteers that cooked and delivered the meals.
2021
Became and Incorporated Association with an Executive Committee of 8.
Won the Westfield Local Hero Award at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.
Held a Winter Program in collaboration with the City of Casey to provide food relief in Melbourne’s lockdowns.
2022
Became a Nationally Registered Charity with the ACNC.
Ran our very first Support Market - a community focused event aiming to provide the South East with knowledge of supports for Youth and CALD.
Started hosting community fundraisers.
2023
Acquired our first set of Sponsors for the Summer Program.
Hosted our second Support Market.
Launched COOK4FRIENDS Fundraising initiative.
Began collaborating with local organisations.
2024
Finding more and more ways to expand our operation!