Chelsea pizza maker’s incredible gesture to people struggling amid COVID-19

When a pizza-maker, hairdresser, real estate director and politician put their heads together to work out how to bring some cheer to struggling community members, a great idea was born.

Pizza maker Freddy Kerbage (back) with Inas, Maurice, 12, and Zane, 10 (front) have teamed up with hair stylist Deen Mos (L) and O’Brien Real Estate Chelsea director Stavros Ambatzidis to deliver free food to people who are struggling due to COVID-19 and lockdown. Picture: Penny Stephens

Pizza maker Freddie Kerbage knows a thing or two about serving his community.

And when the coronavirus outbreak hit Melbourne, the proudly passionate Chelsea resident behind thriving Italian eatery Cucina Dolce thought hard about how he could brighten the day of those doing it tough.

At the beginning of April, he sat down with hairdresser Deen Mos from Hairmoves Chelsea, O’Brien Real Estate Chelsea director Stavros Ambatzidis and MP Tim Richardson to come up with a way they could make a difference.

It was then the Put a Smile on Your Face project was born.

Since then, generous group members have delivered a care package containing two gourmet woodfired pizzas, one fresh salad, one tub of sweet gelato, one bottle of soft drink as well as a complimentary haircut and blow-wave to at least two people per day, seven days a week.

People can nominate needy recipients from Chelsea and surrounding suburbs on the Cucina Dolce Facebook page.

“We’ve had people nominate those who are on the verge of poverty, others who are going through marriage breakups or experiencing financial hardship,” Mr Kerbage said.

“The project has taken off … I give the people a call first and ask how they are going.

“I’ve had people sending me photos of them crying (when they receive the package).”

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Mr Kerbage, who proudly sponsors a number of community groups including the Chelsea football and soccer clubs and Red Cross, said he wanted to set an example for his two young sons.

His Nepean Hwy restaurant is open for takeaway orders in line with strict coronavirus rules and recently introduced $7 off online orders as a special deal during the outbreak.

“During times of need, it’s not all about making money, it’s about looking after the community and people who need help,” he said.

“I walk around Chelsea with my head held high knowing I can make a difference.”