Adelaide’s first free supermarket is officially opening its doors today, aiming to ease the burden of the cost of living for those in need while reducing food waste.
Located in Hindmarsh, OzHarvest’s grocery store will provide free produce, pantry items, and cooked meals rescued from local businesses. This initiative is a lifeline for many facing tough times.
The supermarket offers critical relief for Joel Greenstock and his partner Andrea Caple. “We’re living in a tent at Semaphore Caravan Park, and it’s been really tough,” Joel shared. “But with places like this, we get the help we need when money is tight. This morning, some of the food I had prepared was stolen from our fridge, but this supermarket is giving us a second chance.”
Joel understands firsthand how vital proper nourishment is during difficult times. “Good food helps keep your spirits up. It gives you strength, helps you feel more presentable, and keeps your attitude positive, even in the worst circumstances,” he said. “People from all walks of life will benefit from this, including families with children, those struggling, and others who just need a little help to get by.”
For Max, a man living with Down syndrome, the supermarket provides access to healthier food. His support worker, Cathrin Gill, explained how this initiative is more than just providing meals. “Our clients are on very low incomes and often rely on their disability support pension,” Cathrin said. “This gives them the opportunity to access nutritious meals and develop cooking skills they wouldn’t otherwise have.”
As Adelaide’s first fully free supermarket, OzHarvest is tackling two challenges at once—reducing food waste and helping people in need. Founder Ronni Kahn AO emphasised the growing demand for their services. “In my 20 years with OzHarvest, I’ve never seen the need this high. The rising cost of living, combined with the lingering impacts of COVID, is hitting ordinary working people hard,” she said. “Charities are asking for 50% more food, and the demand is overwhelming.”
The supermarket follows a successful model that was first established in Sydney. “In Sydney, we’ve seen demand skyrocket from 150 people a day to 500,” Kahn explained. “We distribute the equivalent of half a million meals a week, but it’s still not enough.”
Rachel Hibble, OzHarvest’s SA manager, pointed out that the cost of living crisis is affecting people across the board. “Almost half of South Australians are anxious about where their next meal will come from,” she said. “We’re seeing families, international students, and even individuals escaping domestic violence all coming to us for help.”
The Manton Street supermarket will be open from 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with extended hours from 3 pm to 7 pm on Wednesdays to accommodate working individuals. “We’re especially trying to help full-time workers who are struggling with rent and bills,” Hibble said. “They can come after work, get the food they need, and feel supported.”
The supermarket’s stock varies based on what donations are received, but customers can always expect a welcoming atmosphere. “Our volunteers treat everyone who comes through our doors with care, respect, and dignity,” Kahn emphasized. “The supermarket is open to anyone in need, no questions asked. If you’re struggling or facing financial difficulties, we’re here for you.”
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