But Lube Markovski and his family not only provided the food for more than 100 people free but wanted to pay its staff for their time. He said it was his chance to give back to the community that has supported him so well in so many business ventures.

Lighthouse general manager Josh Hammann said the community kitchen helped families across the region who might be doing it a bit tough, lonely, homeless or just could not afford to put dinner on the table every night.

“1933 meals have already been served up in 2017,” he said.

Mr Hammann said the initiative also provided connections and a greater sense of belonging for people.

“We create an experience every Thursday night with a pop-up-restaurant, a two course meal free of charge served by volunteers who wait on our guests,” he said.

“We love to bring dignity and honour to people. I know that Lube, through his restaurants, also loves to create a great experience for people, so we are very appreciative of this partnership”.

Lighthouse Community Kitchen already partners with Orange Sky Laundry, University of Wollongong and Cedars & Edmund Rice. And would love to hear from other businesses and organisations interested in being a part of the innovative initiative.

The Markovski family run business is a regular supporter.

The Lighthouse was one of the first community groups we had for our Local Matters initiative,” Mr Markovski said.

“From out first day at Wollongong they have been a part of Grill’d and we have been a big part of the Lighthouse. I have spoken there a few times and a lot of their parishioners come here every Sunday night after church which is really nice. We have talked about getting more involved with them and I came up with this.”

Mr Markovski said he was also really proud of the Grill’d employees who were so keen to help. They not only helped cook and serve the meals but took the time to talk and interact with everyone who came along.

“I am absolutely overwhelmed,” he said.

“They are just really good people.