A group of Cambridge volunteers are on a mission to unite the community, one delicious meal at a time.

The initiative, called Meet Eat Repeat, hosts a free three-course meal on the third Friday of every month and all are welcome.

“It started from a vision I had to help our community feel connected,” says Meet Eat Repeat founder Ruth Aish.

“This initiative is about people meeting people and food is always a good icebreaker!

“If you are feeling isolated or lonely, this will definitely help you make connections with others in our town, not to mention the amazing food.”

Two dinners in, momentum for Meet Eat Repeat is building. Fifteen people attended their first event and 25 came to their second, and their Facebook group has more than 100 members.

The dinners are run by about 12 volunteers.

“We collaborate with Cambridge Community House and Kete Kai, who has been our sponsor to date, but with the growth we are seeing, we may need to expand this. I am part of Bridges Church, who let us use their amazing ground floor kitchen and café area.

“Community gatherings like Meet Eat Repeat are vital to the wellbeing of our community as there has been increased anxiety due to Covid and changed circumstances for so many.

“We want all to feel welcome, to make new connections and hopefully look forward to coming along each month.” 

Ruth’s message to locals is “come along, you are in for a treat”.

“Everyone is so friendly and happy to be there. There is also transport available if this is an issue.

“Our vision is to get to know our community and strengthen community wellbeing. Our values are Aroha, love, and a sense of family connection created through shared experiences.

“We want to provide a sense of belonging, with respect, compassion, kindness, equality and non-judgement.”

To see upcoming menus and for more information, visit Meet, Eat, Repeat on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/701586107309320