For more than 50 years, Coffee Brigade has been working to alleviate hunger and support people in need.
A new purpose-built home in Brisbane’s north has now future-proofed the local charity’s ability to continue its vital work.
Every day of the year, Coffee Brigade volunteers head to four locations across inner Brisbane in a customised van stocked with coffee and wholesome food, where they connect with vulnerable residents.
The move ensures that growing numbers of disadvantaged members of the community know they have a safe place to visit for nourishment and connection.
The new premises was officially opened in Windsor at the weekend by Enoggera Ward Councillor Andrew Wines, and Lady Mayoress and Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust Nina Schrinner.
Coffee Brigade President, Melinda Clifton said, “We are delighted to be in a new facility so that we can continue to reach more of Brisbane’s vulnerable. As well as the building itself, we required a fit-out for a new kitchen, furniture, and plumbing, none of which would have been possible without the incredibly generous donations and in-kind support we received.”
“Our new home, and the addition of garaging for a new food van in the future, will allow us to continue tracking towards meeting our goal to connect with twice as many of our friends.”
The Salvation Army reports that there are over 9,700 homeless people in Brisbane on any given night – an alarming 1.97% of the population – and with the rising cost of living, Brisbane’s homeless population continues to rise.
Charities like Coffee Brigade are key to supporting the vulnerable.
Lady Mayoress and Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust, Nina Schrinner said Coffee Brigade had provided a combined 6 million meals and coffees to some of Brisbane’s most disadvantaged residents since they hit the road five decades ago.
“It’s heartbreaking that each night across Brisbane, thousands of people are couch surfing, living in cars and sleeping rough on the streets,” Mrs Schrinner said.
“Coffee Brigade supports some of the most vulnerable people in our community by giving them the certainty of knowing where their next meal is coming from.
“It’s more than a cup of coffee and a sandwich, it’s compassion and a kind ear during an incredibly difficult time. This new facility will allow them to expand their offerings and help even more people in need.”
The service operates with a volunteer base of over 150 Brisbane locals who commit to the cause and mission every day, come rain, hail, or shine, no matter the occasion.
The charity was started by the late Louisa Toogood, who saw the necessity to bring connection, meals and warm drinks to those in need.
The official opening marks an important milestone in Coffee Brigade’s history as they continue her legacy.
Coffee Brigade is seeking help from Brisbane businesses to support its endeavors, to be able to reach more people in the community. They are looking for suppliers to partner with for coffee, sugar and milk, and their next major purchase will be a second coffee van to reach more people in need.
