These days, the cost of everything is increasing, putting a real strain on household budgets in Australia. We’re all trying to stretch every dollar, looking for little ways to save at the shops.
Still, it’s heartening to know that good people in our communities understand these challenges and are stepping up to lend a hand in meaningful ways. Their kindness can make a real difference when times are tough.
A beacon of hope shines brightly in the form of community supermarkets offering free groceries to those in need.
Serving Our People (SOP), a compassionate initiative, has been a lifeline for struggling Australians. It provides staple items to approximately 5,000 individuals weekly across its Queensland locations.
The SOP People’s Markets concept is simple yet profound: to assist those grappling with financial hardship by offering them access to essential groceries without cost.
The initiative began in Mermaid Beach in 2022 and has been a crucial support system, especially in the wake of challenges such as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The aftermath of such disasters often leaves communities in dire need of necessities, and SOP has stepped in to fill that gap.
Founder Yas Matbouly aims to open three to four additional markets within the year. This expansion is a testament to the growing need for such services and the success of the existing Mermaid Beach, Beenleigh, and Logan markets.
‘It’s for people who have had their house flooded or people who lost power, or whatever it may be. Everybody is having difficulty making ends meet with their normal lives, and then add to that issues with disasters… That doesn’t help,’ he said.
To access the People’s Markets, you must present a Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN). With this, you can select 15 items, ranging from non-perishable goods to fresh produce, frozen meals, and household products.
The trust-based markets encourage patrons to ‘take what you need’ with ‘no questions asked.’ This policy not only provides relief but also preserves the dignity of those who seek assistance.
The markets are open on specific days and times, catering to the community’s needs:
- Mermaid Beach: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm
- Logan: Tuesday to Thursday, 10 am to 3 pm
- Beenleigh: Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm
While a CRN is typically required for entry, SOP may allow some exceptions at their discretion, highlighting their commitment to helping as many people as possible.
The initiative’s reach is not limited to Queensland. After a successful two-week pop-up People’s Market in Sydney’s Botany, which saw an overwhelming response from the community and the support of over 450 volunteers, a permanent market is being considered in the area.
Additionally, plans are underway to bring the People’s Markets to the New South Wales Northern Rivers region, another area affected by Cyclone Alfred.
Many wonder how SOP keeps the shelves stocked amid such high demand. The answer lies in the generosity of Australians nationwide. SOP collaborates directly with partners like the Food Bank and retailers.
‘We get donations, like the community donates directly into some donation boxes are located at different Coles supermarkets, and some of the corporate organisations also take some of these boxes and they donate directly into them,’ Matboutly explained.
If you’d like to help, your contribution, big or small, can make a tangible difference in ensuring that those facing hardship have access to essential groceries. To learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference, you can visit SOP’s website for information and ways to contribute to this vital initiative.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this initiative! Share your opinions and insights in the comments section below. Additionally, if you know someone who could benefit from this opportunity, please share it with them. Your support could make a big difference!
