The Perera family tradition: Food and fellowship

The Perera family tradition: Food and fellowship

“It’s important to us that our boys grow up understanding the value of giving back — no matter how big or small the gesture” – Kumaransi Silva-Perera

How do families teach kindness through action? 

For the Perera family, the answer comes in the form of homemade lunches shared with people seeking asylum. 

Together, Kumaransi and her husband, mum, brother, and three sons turn volunteering at the Asylum Seekers Centre (ASC) into a cherished bonding activity.

A family tradition

The Pereras’ volunteering journey began in 2022 through a school-sponsored Kids Giving Back’s “Cook 4 Good program”, preparing meals for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. 

“When they stopped sponsoring the program, we felt that it was something we could continue doing on our own as a family,” says Kumaransi.

Since then, the Pereras made it their tradition to organise and serve lunch directly at our Centre at least once a year. 

What began as community service has evolved into a meaningful family celebration that everyone eagerly anticipates.

All happy chefs in the Perera kitchen

On volunteering day, the Perera home comes alive with preparation. 

Their menu is a personal reflection of their favourite family dishes and every family member has a role to own. Last community lunch this was in full display.

 “My eldest son and I were responsible for the chicken, my husband looked after the fruits, the younger boys took charge of the yogurt and chocolates, and my mother and brother prepared the salads.”

“Working together to cook and serve the meals has become a cherished tradition that connects us with our community and reminds us of the joy in giving back.”

The result is a powerful example of teamwork and a delicious meal for the community.

Stories that stick

While each lunch brings warmth and conversation, one encounter stands out vividly for the family.

“One day, we served a lady her lunch, and she gently asked if we could pack a few extra meals for her to take home. Our usual practice is to wait until everyone present has been served before offering takeaway meals, so we kindly asked her to wait. 

She then requested that we simply pack her own lunch into a container. We happily did so, thinking little of it at the time.

Later, it became clear that she wasn’t saving the meal for later — she was taking it home to share with her family. This realisation became a powerful lesson for our boys, who hadn’t initially understood why she didn’t eat her meal on the spot. 

It gave us the opportunity to talk about selflessness, compassion, and the quiet ways people care for one another even in difficult circumstances.”

An invitation to other families

In the Perera household, food and fellowship is celebrated from one generation to the next. 

“It has truly become a highlight in our family calendar.” 

“Our children look forward to this volunteering experience every year.”

Kumaransi encourages other families to give it a try.

“It might seem like a big task to prepare food for around 40 people, but it is worth it in every possible way.”

“It’s a humbling reminder that small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in someone’s day.”

Thank you, Perera family! 

*Join the Perera family in providing hot meals for people seeking asylum! Find out more about our Community Lunch program HERE.