Avondale social supermarket helps those hit hard by tough times

As the cost of living rises, a "social supermarket" is inviting Avondale residents worst hit by the tough times to take what they want and pay what they can.

Free Guys and Kai Avondale coordinator Anne Riley has run the initiative with volunteers since the first COVID lockdown.

Free Guys is not open to the public - it focuses on helping those who need it most and customers are referred by social services or from within the community

About 130 food parcels are sent to families each week, despite some of the challenges that have come with changing pandemic restrictions, says Riley.

“It has been very difficult. We have had supply issues, we have people sick, and we have had to change the way we work.

“We are now making up food parcels for people either to collect and if they are not able to collect, we will deliver.”

Kai Avondale volunteer, Trudy Vinkenvleugel happily takes a day off from her job to support the community, especially with the changes to  covid-related restrictions.

“I think it is important to give back to the community and do something a different with my time. It always makes me feel involved and good when I can help out."

Free Guys has a full quota volunteers, with some of those who receive food parcels repaying her with their time.

Free Guys coordinator Anne Riley delivers parcels to families in need. Photo: Eva Griffin-Jones

The service is vital to the community in such difficult times and there are other ways people can help, Riley says

“We have a website and Facebook page where others can contact us to donate goods or request help.”

She says the multiple food banks across West Auckland work together and it is great to see everyone helping out in tough times.