How you can pay it forward at local cafe

The simple act of ‘paying it forward’ can have far reaching effects and the smallest random acts of kindness can make a huge difference in someone’s day.

“Over winter last year, we saw an opportunity to support our community with suspended coffees or meals for people in need,” said Nambour’s Arden Dawn owner, Kirstie Martin. “The fish and chip shop that previously offered Suspended meals on Currie street had closed down, and we knew that we could provide healthier meals for people in need, with the help from our community”.

The idea is simple. You can purchase a coffee or meal when you are buying your own food, and it is suspended and waiting for someone in need. “We have found that our customers have been incredibly supportive and happy to get on board,” Kirstie said. “We do extremely healthy, hearty meals and our toasted sandwiches and burgers have been particularly popular.”

Kirstie and her husband Lance also promote other organisations in town who help to feed those in need. “There are regular BBQs at the Anglican Church, and meals being offered by The Shack and The Men’s Shed,” said Kirstie. “We have a list of organisations here for people to reference.”

The service is open to anyone in need.

“We don’t ask or judge, because it is not up to us to do that,” said Kirstie. “We have had people from school aged children to adults of all ages and from all walks of life and circumstances.

“It is a tragedy that there is a need for it at all but at the end of the day, it is wonderful to be in the position to help those who need kindness, compassion, and healthy food, prepared with love.”

Arden Dawn’s Ajuna Bahloo pays one forward.