Margot White and her team of volunteers’ good deeds during Covid-19

A van covered in graffiti has become an important part of the lives of many vulnerable people during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hot meals, clothing, blankets are among the many things it provides.

As the saying goes, it’s what is on the inside that counts. And inside this eye-catching blue van covered in graffiti is Margot White and her team of St Vincent de Paul volunteers, who have been delivering hot meals to Adelaide’s most vulnerable during Covid-19.

Since the pandemic began, Ms White has seen an increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness, social isolation and unemployment and needing the services of Fred’s Van, which also provides clothing, blankets and toiletries.

“We had quite a spike (in the number of people using Fred’s Van) because some other services were unable to operate so, obviously, when they closed down our demand went up,” Ms White, a team leader for the organisation, says.

“Sometimes we give these people their only hot meal of the day and that is just so important, especially now.”

“Our biggest service has been in Gawler Pl in the CBD … but we have had to make changes and become a takeaway service to minimise person to person contact during the pandemic.”

Ms White is one of hundreds of St Vincent de Paul volunteers who have fronted up to feed and clothe homeless, marginalised, unemployed and socially isolated during the Covid-19 pandemic.

And her contribution is part of The Advertiser’s campaign that shines the light on everyday heroes who have kept South Australia running during the biggest health crisis in 70 years.

Covid heroes – Margot White is part of the Fred's Van crew that have been giving meals to the vulnerable. Margot is in the front seat, with fellow volunteers, Jude Davis, Anna Pannunzio and Steve Daysh. Picture Dean Martin

Fred’s Van has been helping the vulnerable since the 1980s and now runs across Aldinga, CBD, Christie Downs, Kilburn, Elizabeth, Gawler, Semaphore and Salisbury.

It serves about 40,000 nutritious meals each year.

“There might be embarrassment associated with accessing services like this and we have no judgment at all – we are just there to try and help make someone’s life a little easier by providing a meal, supplies and some connection,” Ms White says.

“People are super appreciative of the services we provide. Usually we have people lined up and they rely on us.”

St Vincent de Paul Society SA chief executive Michelle Kemp says she is proud of her volunteers, who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic.

“Throughout it all, our volunteers and staff have turned up day after day to ensure that some of our most vulnerable community members receive the help and support they so desperately need,” Ms Kemp says.
“This will continue throughout the Christmas period, as the need for assistance doesn’t stop just because it’s Christmas.”