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As the cost of living continues to rise across Australia, more individuals and families are turning to BaptistCare’s services for support. One service that has seen significant growth is BaptistCare’s Community Food Hub, which provides discounted groceries, free fruit and vegetables and bread to families in need. 

Located alongside the WestCare Centre in the heart of Adelaide, the Community Food Hub recently recorded its highest demand since COVID, as families prepared for Easter. On the Monday before Easter weekend, the Hub processed a daytime record of 133 transactions and gave away more than 135 kilograms of fresh produce, a clear indication of the scale of need within the community. 

“Everyday Australians are feeling the squeeze” 

Stefano Tocci, Manager of BaptistCare Inner City Services and the WestCare Centre, says the increase in demand reflects the financial pressure many people are facing. 

“We haven’t seen a daytime transaction number this high since COVID,” he explains. “Behind those 133 transactions are real families trying to stretch their budgets.” 

With grocery prices continuing to rise, the Food Hub has become an essential service for people who are working hard but still finding it difficult to make ends meet. 

A social supermarket where everyone feels welcome 

Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm, the BaptistCare Community Food Hub operates as a social supermarket, providing low-cost groceries, fresh produce, and essential items. Staff and volunteers provide a warm welcome and a joyful community atmosphere, making shoppers feel comfortable and like they are part of something bigger. 

The Hub relies on the generosity of community partners and corporate donors, whose contributions help stretch support even further. Recent donations and chocolate goodies from VIP Cleaning and OzHarvest, allow families doing it tough to enjoy seasonal treats they might otherwise have gone without. 

Changing patterns of need 

While the WestCare Centre continues to offer crisis vouchers, only a small number are currently being used. This suggests that many people accessing the Food Hub are not in acute crisis but are everyday South Australians who are finding it challenging to keep up with cost of living pressures. 

The ongoing rise in demand underscores the importance of accessible, community-driven support services and the vital role BaptistCare continues to play in helping people maintain stability during challenging times.

For more information about the Community Food Hub, along with details and opening hours – click here.