The Tuesday Club is considered an unmissable social event by many elderly Russian-Jewish migrants.
The monthly get together was established by Holocaust survivor Masha Zeleznikow in 1978 after a tragic encounter with a recent arrival from Russia.
"I was asked to visit a 40-year-old lady in hospital that tried to commit suicide because she was very unhappy and very lonely," she said.
"That woman did not speak a word of English. She did not have friends."
"I was constantly faced with people who were unhappy."
"I realised that the only way we could help was to do something to bring people together."
Combating despair
With a group of volunteers, Ms Zeleznikow formed the Tuesday Club, an event for middle-aged and elderly Russian speaking Jewish migrants.
Just 20 people were expected to attend the first gathering at the Kadimah in Elstenwick.
But more than 80 turned up.
Most were unable to speak English and were suffering from culture shock.
"Life in Russia was completely different," said Ms Zeleznikow.
"They did not know how to look for a house, how to look for a job. They were completely not equipped. That was the tragedy."
The first members of the Tuesday Club Source: Supplied
Over the years, thousands of migrants have enjoyed music, listened to speakers and shared meals at the club, forming valuable friendships and finding essential support.
Olga Bessaron has been attending for 23 years.
"I like the music, I like the people," she said when asked why she keeps coming.
Ukrainian Mira Kazak has been attending nearly as long.
"I come here 20 years ago," she said.
"I am very happy at this club. It is organised very well. We have a very good time."
Social isolation remains a problem
The Russian migrant, whose plight spurred Ms Zeleznikow to action, volunteered for several years with the club.
Now in its 37th year, the event is operated by Jewish Care.
The Manager of its Healthy Ageing Program, Brennan Carlson, said social isolation remains a problem for some of the migrants.
"With our community here, the isolation can be about feeling too frail," he said.
"[It is also] also about reverting back to first language."
Some never learnt English, having stayed home to bring up their children and later grandchildren.
"People still feel very lonely," said Ms Zeleznikow.
* Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or follow @LifelineAust @OntheLineAus @kidshelp @beyondblue @headspace_aus @ReachOut_AUS on Twitter.
