ECH acknowledge that the “festive season”, and Christmas time, isn’t always the joyous occasion shared by the media. Therefore, they extend their understanding and support to those who may be finding this time of year challenging.
Whether you are on your own, or part of a large family with lots of social events, this time of year can be a stressful time for many reasons. It’s important to remember to treat yourself well, with special meals or some nice gifts, and plan activities you love, like going for a walk or starting an activity you’ve always wanted to do.
ECH also understands the importance of companionship during this time.
If you’re feeling lonely during the holiday season and are seeking a warm, festive atmosphere on Christmas Day, they’ve compiled a list of places hosting free or low-cost Christmas lunches. Sharing a meal with others can be a wonderful way to find connection and celebrate the spirit of togetherness during the holidays.
The list has been compiled by their Community Engagement Team, with these services and events spanning the Adelaide Metropolitan area, as well as the South Australian regional areas across the festive season.
Where to eat lunch this Christmas day?
Adelaide City:
Baptist Care SA (WESTCARE)
Meals for people experiencing homelessness or low income earners. Drop in, no cost
Monday 25 December 2023, 11am – 1pm
11-13 Millers Court, Adelaide SA 5000
Pilgrim Uniting Church
Free Christmas dinner for people who are vulnerable, isolated or want to share Christmas with others. No cost
Monday 25 December 2023, 4.30pm
Pilgrim Uniting Church, 12 Flinders St Adelaide
Adelaide suburbs and surrounds:
Glen Osmond Baptist Church
Christmas Eve Carols on the Oval with FREE sausage sizzle, all welcome!
Sunday 24 December 2023, 5pm – 7:30pm
Glen Osmond Primary School Oval,
The Salvation Army, Unley
Christmas Eve dinner for residents of Unley and Mitcham councils. No cost
Sunday 24 December 2023, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
70 Marion St, Unley
(08) 8271 2839
Elizabeth Church of Christ
Christmas day lunch. No cost
Monday 25 December 2023 at 12pm
38 Ashfield Rd, Elizabeth
(08) 8255 2467
Centacare, Aldinga
Christmas Day Lunch for the community. No cost, RSVP/bookings required for catering
Monday 25 December 2023, 11am – 2pm
Aldinga – address details given on booking
(08) 8215 6310
MarionLIFE
$5 Christmas Day Lunch for the community. Come along for a main meal, dessert, tea/coffee, music and fun! Families with children are most welcome.
Monday 25 December 2023, 12noon
887 Marion Rd, Mitchell Park
(08) 8277 0304 or info@marionlife.org.au
Wakefield House Positive Ageing Centre, Morphett Vale
$5 Christmas Day Lunch for the community
Monday 25 December 2023, 12:30pm
65 Acre Ave, Morphett Vale
North East Salvos, Campbelltown
Christmas Day Dinner for the community. No cost. Provided by the North East Salvos and supported by Council
Monday 25 December 2023, 6pm – 9pm
Campbelltown Function Centre, 172 Montacute Rd, Rostrevor
8366 9222
Regional:
The Salvation Army, Victor Harbour
Christmas dinner. No cost
Monday 25 December 2023
22 Bartel Boulevard, Encounter Bay
Kadina Church of Christ
Free BBQ and Traditional Carol singing at 7pm
Saturday 23 December 2023
7 Taylor St, Kadina
Combined Christian Churches of Murray Bridge
A community Christmas lunch for people in the Murray Bridge area who are in need, experiencing homelessness or who are lonely or isolated this year. No cost
Monday 25 December 2023, 12pm
Catholic Church Hall, Cnr Ind and Mannum Rd, Murray Bridge
Catholic Church 8531 1699, Uniting Church 8532 5150 or 0466 411 784
Image credit: The Salvation Army
