Fresh food for free: charity opens People’s Market in Beenleigh

Queenslanders in the corridor from the Gold Coast to Brisbane who are still struggling after Cyclone Alfred have been sent a lifeline, with a permanent free supermarket opening.

Some of the free produce available for families in Logan. Each shopper can take 15 items once a week. Pictures: Contributed

Queenslanders in the corridor from the Gold Coast to Brisbane who are still struggling after Cyclone Alfred have been sent a lifeline, with a permanent free supermarket opening in Beenleigh.

Gold Coast charity Serving Our People opened its new People’s Market, at the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre on James St this week.

The initiative, which allows shoppers to take 15 items once a week, aims to provide relief to families facing soaring grocery prices, housing stress, and economic hardship by offering essential food and household items at no cost.

A recent QCOSS Living Affordability in Queensland 2024 report found that food and drink now account for up to 23 per cent of family budgets, making them the second-highest household expense.

Families can take up to 15 items a week for free. Pictures: Contributed

On top of that, a P & C Queensland survey revealed that 16 per cent of Queensland families have run out of food over the past year — four times the national average.

Founder of Serving Our People Yas Matbouly said it was important to provide free, rather than discounted, food to those in need.

“When somebody is struggling financially, they don’t need discounted food. That’s why everything we have is free,” he said.

The charity anticipates that more than 5000 Beenleigh residents will visit the new market in its first week.

It followed the success of the charity’s first two People’s Markets, which the charity estimated helped more 500,000 households since launching in 2023.

Logan Mayor Jon Raven praised the initiative, particularly in the wake of Cyclone Alfred.

“This is an amazing opportunity for people who have been impacted by the cyclone to get the essentials they need the most,” he said.

The charity is run by volunteers. Pictures: Contributed

The shelves are stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meals, meat, non-perishable food, and household essentials, ensuring that families have access to nutritious and necessary goods.

The People’s Market operates every Thursday from 9am to 3pm, with plans to expand hours based on community demand.

The first People’s Market, launched in Mermaid Beach in 2023, has already helped more than 500,000 people and now operates five days a week.

The charity continues to grow its services, with a mission to provide dignity and assistance to those in financial distress.

■ Community members in need are encouraged to visit James St, Beenleigh. Those wishing to contribute can visit SOP’s website to donate or sign up as volunteers.