I was honoured to recently meet two extraordinary women, Coral Lever and Kimberley Peckham from Nanima Mission, who run the vital mutual aid organisation First Nations Response in Marrickville. 

Together, these sisters have created something truly remarkable.  

First Nations Response operates on the fundamental belief that food is a right, not a privilege. Through their tireless efforts, First Nations Response provides free meals, groceries, essentials and advocacy for First Nations communities. 

What makes First Nations Response special is how they combine practical support with genuine connection. They don't just provide nutritious free food - they create community, offering connection for mob while taking the pressure off families doing it tough. 

Coral and Kimberley understand that food security is about dignity, culture, and care. Their organisation fills gaps in services while ensuring First Nations people feel seen, supported, and respected. 

Operating from the heart of Marrickville, First Nations Response demonstrates the power of grassroots community action led by First Nations women who understand their community's needs. 

Thank you, Coral and Kimberley, for your dedication - you're proving that real change happens when community looks after community!