Cook-Off brings generations and cultures together

The Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra (MCCI) is a non-profit charity that supports people and communities from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

With nearly 200 staff and volunteers and over 40 languages spoken, the service covers the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and ACT/Queanbeyan areas. Services include aged care, youth development, engagement, community capacity building, volunteering and training service.

One program that brings people together around food is the Cook-Off program. It enables people from across cultures and generations to come together in a fun and safe space to share their stories and passion for food.

The program started in 2013 as the Multicultural Intergenerational Cook-Off Challenge, with seniors handing down their cooking secrets to younger people.

Partnerships with The Shellharbour Club, Lake Illawarra High School, The Fraternity Club and Corrimal High School have produced seven cookbooks so far. The first one in 2017 has 15 recipes across six different cultures and includes colourful photos of the food and the people.

As well as the cookbooks, the program has other positive outcomes. It breaks down barriers between generations and cultures and develops a love of food, cooking and eating.

Download MCCI Cookbooks 2017-2022 here.

Find out more about MCCI include volunteering and donations here.