We are excited to announce Elizabeth Spanos from Penrith Community Kitchen as your 2024 Westfield Local Hero for Penrith!

Westfield is proud to award a community grant of $20K to help Elizabeth Spanos at Penrith Community Kitchen to continue to grow their impact in the local community.

The 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program will award 125 grants across Australia and New Zealand – totaling $AUD1.24 million to support local communities.

Your 2024 Westfield Penrith Local Hero is:

Elizabeth (Beth) Spanos

Penrith Community Kitchen

Generous. Inclusive. Selfless..

Elizabeth (Beth) Spanos provides nutritious meals to those in need through her volunteer work at Penrith Community Kitchen.

Beyond simply offering food, the kitchen fosters community and combats social isolation. "In the 25+ years we've operated, we've learnt that it's not always hunger that drives people to us," Beth explains. "It can also be loneliness, a lack of skill, or an inability to shop due to poor health or mobility."

With Beth's support, the kitchen has recently expanded to collaborate with 12 local schools, providing pantry food and frozen meals for students to take home to family members.

Beth's empathy and dedication stem from her own childhood experiences of community support following her mother's passing. This personal history drives her to give back and support others in need.

"My belief is that if you can avoid going hungry, your outlook can change. And if you have someone who will listen to and care for you, even if it's only briefly, you can feel safe. And that's how the world can become a little brighter," says Beth.

Under her guidance, Penrith Community Kitchen serves 500 people weekly and impacts many more by addressing hunger and fostering a supportive community environment.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities. The finalist with the most community votes is the Westfield Penrith Local Hero for 2024, receiving a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent. Penrith Community Kitchen will use the grant to provide food to 12 local schools, ensuring no child goes hungry.

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We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent...

Joshua Montillano from Ted Noffs Foundation

Joshua Montillano, a youth drug and alcohol counsellor at Ted Noffs Foundation, has built a strong rapport with at-risk youth. Through harm reduction and creative therapeutic workshops, Josh provides treatment to over 100 young people per year. He is motivated to give back to the community and advocate for those in need.

Susan Bor from Kassie’s Cases

Sue Bor, a dedicated advocate for children in crisis and volunteer with Kassie's Cases. This initiative provides suitcases filled with clothing, toys and essentials for kids entering foster care or escaping domestic violence. Each bag, packed and distributed by Sue, offers children a sense of belonging and dignity.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2024 nominees

View all of the Westfield Penrith nominees and their organisations.