For the past 12 years, Mali has been a constant source of support and kindness at Evangelical Mission for Salvation International (EMSINT). Nearly 150 people visit him each day, with more than 1,600 families registered to access the pantry. Supported by four dedicated volunteers, Mali has created a safe and welcoming space for families in need.

Every week, Mali makes multiple trips to Foodbank Queensland’s Food Distribution Centre to collect nutritious fruit, vegetable and pantry items. It’s a visit that sets the pace for his entire day. “The first group of people, they come and wait for me in the morning,” he shared. After a short break in the middle of the day, the pantry is bustling again with families arriving after school pick-up. 

Through their membership, families can visit the EMSINT pantry to access free fruit and vegetables, fresh bread, and a low-cost range of pantry items. This model has not only helped stretch tight budgets but has also given families choice and dignity. “The thing that is very, very important is the veggies, bread, and fruit, because it is free. That is because I pick it up for free from Foodbank,” Mali explained. 

The pantry supports people from Acacia Ridge, Yarrabilba, Sunnybank, Marsden, and surrounding areas. Many are refugees or people new to the country, while others are experiencing homelessness or struggling despite having jobs. “We have refugees, we have some homeless people, and we have also people with jobs that come here. Also, people who don’t have a permanent visa here and are not allowed to work. Lots of different people can come to the pantry,” Mali said.

Mali has seen the power of choice in creating dignity for people who visit his pantry. “If you just make a box and you give to them. Maybe there’s some stuff that they do eat and some they will not eat. Then they will throw it away. But if they can choose what they want, what is halal for them and other people, that benefits the rest of the community.” 

For Mali, this work is not just a role, it’s a calling. As a Pastor, he has always felt deeply committed to serving others. “If I don’t do this, I can’t do anything else. I have done this all my life, even in Africa before coming to Australia.”

His entire community relies on his weekly collections from Foodbank Queensland. “I only collect from Foodbank, I don’t have any other suppliers or collections. So if I miss my pick up from Foodbank, then the community misses out,” he said. “If I don’t have Foodbank, all of these people who come, they will leave with no food.”

Mali’s dedication and tireless efforts ensure that families across the community not only receive the food they need but also the dignity, care and respect they deserve.