Community gathers for RU OK lunch

Farrah Buckland and Kathleen Porter show their support for ''R U OK'' day.

By Brendan Rees

About 70 people tucked into a tasty lunch put on by the Hampton Park Uniting Church to discuss a life-changing question.

Visitors and volunteers at the church dressed in yellow and asked one another a simple but important question: “Are you OK?” on Thursday 12 September in support of the national day of ‘R U OK?’

The day aims for people to check in with others who may be struggling with their mental health.

Volunteer Farrah Buckland said guests made meaningful connections with others over a two-course meal .

“We spoke to them about the importance of asking R U OK? Not just today, but every other day,” she said.

“Sometimes just be there to listen – it can make a world of difference to someone.”

Hampton Park Uniting Church opens its doors to the public every Thursday for those wanting a meal.

On Thursday 19 September volunteers will be celebrating the footy season with their ‘Footy themed lunch’ where they encourage people to wear their footy colours.