Hope Starts in Local Communities
Written by Megan Micalizzi
“God places the lonely in families.” Psalm 68:6
One of the things I see regularly through my work is that loneliness rarely exists on its own. Many people facing hardship, disability, mental health challenges, grief, trauma or financial pressure are also carrying the weight of isolation and disconnection. They may be surrounded by people, yet still feel unseen. They may be part of a community, yet not truly feel that they belong.
As Christians, we’re called to respond differently. God’s answer to loneliness is relationship. Throughout Scripture, we see a God who draws near, welcomes people into community and restores connection. Psalm 68 reminds us that God places the lonely in families — not simply households, but places of belonging, care and support.
That’s why some of the most meaningful change happens through ordinary people creating spaces where others can be known, valued and included.
A wonderful example of this can be seen through Thrive Local Project on Brisbane’s northside.
Led by Charity Director Nicola and a dedicated team of volunteers, Thrive Local Project takes a holistic approach to supporting vulnerable people through practical assistance, meaningful relationships and opportunities to contribute. Operating from Centrepoint Church in Chermside, the organisation has become a place where people can find both support and connection.
Their weekly Friday Bread Run provides free bread and baked goods to families experiencing cost-of-living pressures. While the practical support is important, the impact often reaches much further.
Nicola shared the story of a grandfather who regularly collects bread to help feed his six grandchildren when they visit on weekends, while also sharing supplies with his adult children to help them through the week.
“It isn’t just helping one household,” she says. “It’s helping multiple generations of a family.”
The organisation’s commitment to building community is also evident through Thrive Connect, a weekly gathering for seniors and people living with disabilities. Each week participants come together over morning tea, friendship and shared projects. Together they have knitted hundreds of beanies for people experiencing homelessness, as well as toys and blankets for children and patients at the Mater Hospital.
One story that particularly resonates is that of a woman who is deaf and lives with Cerebral Palsy. With support from volunteers and the group’s knitting machines, she was able to create a beanie for someone experiencing homelessness.
“The smile on her face when she finished was priceless,” Nicola recalls. “It perfectly embodies what Thrive Connect is all about — breaking down barriers so everyone can experience the joy of purpose and community connection.”
What I love about these stories is that they remind us that belonging isn’t just about receiving support. It’s also about having the opportunity to contribute. Every person wants to know they matter, that they have something to offer, and that they are part of something bigger than themselves.
Real community transformation often begins with simple acts of welcome, friendship and care. When people choose to walk alongside one another, isolation begins to lose its grip. People find connection, purpose and hope.
Perhaps that’s what community-led change looks like — ordinary people creating spaces where the lonely find family, where everyone has a place, and where God’s love is experienced through community.
Megan Micalizzi
Empowered Faith Communities Relationship Manager
& Chaplain at Nexus Care
Download the report and celebrate what God is doing through ordinary people showing up in extraordinary ways.
