Community Partner Story – Community Friends

Every Wednesday for the past 13 years, Mark, Jimmy and the volunteers at Community Friends have been there for people in need. At their weekly market, hundreds of people from across Southeast Queensland gather not just for food, but for connection, support and dignity. 

“We serve 300 people each week at the Wednesday markets,” Jimmy, one of the Community Friends organisers shares. “And will support another 20 families during the week with emergency food hampers.” 

From Ipswich to Caboolture, Logan City to Southport, people travel long distances for the warm welcome and reliable help they receive. Tables overflow with fresh fruit and vegetables, shelf staples, and more – all completely free of charge. 

“We buy some food, some food gets donated,” Jimmy explains. “We never say no to anything, Jimmy will take everything, because we can turn it into a meal.” 

Foodbank Queensland is proud to be one of the many partners supporting Community Friends in their work. Over the years, the Community Friends team has become a lifeline for many, especially vulnerable members of the community like seniors.  

“We have a lot of seniors around here, so if we can give them three to four days’ worth of food, they can use that money for electricity, medication, maybe something else they need.” 

It’s not just food that brings people back – it is the deep sense of care. “Some people come not for the food, but for the company,” Jimmy says.  

The market is also supported by other community organisations, like Orange Sky Laundry, and often includes shared meals cooked by community members. 

Generosity flows both ways. When wild weather swept through Brisbane and surrounds, a local bakery stepped up and made 600 croissants for Community Friends to share. Acts like these are not uncommon.  

“We give and take in life, that is how we make it through,” Jimmy reflects, “I take it with one hand and give it to another hand.” 

 Community Friends’ commitment to those in need goes back decades. Jimmy recalls, “Fifty years ago, when I owned a convenience store, I would give extra food out to those who needed some support. When I worked in a catering business, we would cook extra meals for the community.” 

Even now, Jimmy works around the clock – 24 hours a day, on call to make sure no one goes hungry. His dedication is unwavering, no matter the circumstances. “If you are hungry, the weather does not really matter. You still have to eat.” 

At the heart of Community Friends is a simple yet powerful belief: “We get all sorts of people, and we don’t ask questions. We don’t care what colour you are, what religion you are or where you come from. You are here and you deserve food.” 

Thanks to the Community Friends team, hundreds of people each week receive more than just food – they are nourished with friendship, compassion and dignity. 

If you are in a position to help Foodbank Queensland provide more food across the state to support Queenslanders in need, please consider joining the fight against hunger as a regular giver.