"It feels like it should be August," says our receptionist, Narelle.

Already, just two months into the year, we're seeing the same level of need that we tend to see at the end of a year. Comparing February 2022 with February 2023, we've just reported a 97% increase in the number of food parcels we have given out.

The gravity of our guest’s heartbreaking situations is being felt across our team as we rally to maintain our quality care services in Everton Park and Sandgate each week. Certainly, the current cost of living and the rental crisis is having an impact on the already vulnerable.

"So many of the women we meet are single mums," explained Narelle.

"And, devastatingly, many of them are navigating the trauma of domestic violence while working tirelessly to support their children. One such story is Sarah’s*:

"Sarah*, a beautiful mum came in last week. She was beside herself because an unfortunate turn of events had a catastrophic outcome for her." 

It started with an increase in her rent, which meant that she and her children could no longer afford to live in their accommodation. While searching for a solution, the family couch surfed and began living out of their car.

"She was standing in front of me, sobbing as she tried to put her pain into words,” said Narelle.

As a team and as a local Brisbane Charity, we care deeply.

For Sarah, we were not only able to help with nutritious food but we could extend to provide additional relief through our other programs.

Our Fresh Start Food Parcels are often the first time we meet people like Sarah* and this is why our Supporters are vital.

Because of incredible donors, we continue to meet this increasing demand with dignity and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

*name changed to protect our valued clients.