‘Our House’ clients launch cookbook
A group of men who attended cooking classes at Carinity Communities – Our House, have now published a cookbook of their favourite recipes, which is currently on sale.
The four men with disability initially set up a catering group called the Lunch n’ Kings after completing the life-skills course at the community and disability support centre in Toogoolawah; and the amateur cooks then received a grant from the Council to publish the cookbook.
Describing himself as being “over the moon” when he saw the book in print, co-author Shane said that they’re now hoping to bring out a second cookbook with the proceeds from the first one.
Having muscular dystrophy, Shane said that his life has changed substantially since coming to Our House, as he has met lots of new friends, learned new skills and is also doing voluntary work in the community.
“I feel more confident now and more independent. I used to be bored and just hang out by myself and watch a bit of TV. Now I’m really enjoying myself and loved baking all the amazing desserts in the cookery classes. I’m also doing two radio shows by myself at the community radio station,” he said.
Co-author Jarrod said that he was really proud when he saw his photo in the cookbook and added that he’s never been happier since coming to Our House as he’s met so many new friends.
Delighted with how far the men have progressed, Our House Coordinator Margaret Poole explained that the Lunch n’ Kings now receive regular paid work, catering for groups using the centre, and one of the men has also got a job in a local cafe.
“The men have really come out of themselves after learning skills and gaining confidence at the cookery classes. They just refused to let their disabilities get in the way of living the lives they wanted to lead,” she said.
According to Mrs Poole, the Lunch n’ Kings story is a really positive one because it shows what people can achieve once they’re given the opportunities. She added that the day a client transitions from the centre after learning the skills to live independently, is one of her proudest.
“It’s just great to see that the men have set up a catering business as a result of the cookery classes as well as publishing a cookbook and securing work in the community. I think Our House gave the men that step up and encouragement to become what they wanted to become,” she concluded.
The Lunch n’ Kings cookbook, which features both savoury and sweet recipes is currently on sale from Carinity Communities – Our House, Cressbrook News newsagents and Valley FM 95.9 radio station, priced at $5 each.
Caring staff at Carinity Communities – Our House are dedicated to changing lives for the better, by organising a much needed social outlet for clients, which includes regular outings and activities in the community along with life skills courses and other training.
Carinity Communities – Our House is a community centre providing group based day respite activities and 24-hour respite care, as well as life skills training, in-home care, community BBQ, and Carers’ Support Group. Local community groups also use the centre as a meeting place.
