Pandemic can’t stop this kitchen of kindness
Logan’s Loaves and Fishes food outlet, inspired by one of the best-known stories in the Christian tradition, is certainly living up to its name in 2020. Pandemic restrictions meant a tough few months for the organisation but almost miraculously—there is still plenty to go around. The outlet, on Monte Street in Slacks Creek, feeds about 1,600 adults and 1,700 children each week. CEO Pastor Jock Bamford says it is open to everyone.
“If there’s more of you people out there doing it tough because of COVID-19, this is the place to come,” Pastor Jock says. “You will be able to purchase food that is a real cheap price and you will be able to get a hot meal. “Come on down because we are here to help.” While Loaves and Fishes is one of several Logan-based organisations offering low-priced food for those in need, it is unique in its three pronged approach to feeding locals. The main arm of the outlet is its Cost Recovery Centre, in which cheap groceries are basically ‘a dime a dozen’.
A $10 spend at the store allows customers to receive a trolley of fruit and vegetables from the Loaves and Fishes warehouse, which also arranges and supplies ($40 at Logan and $45 Caboolture) hampers that typically, feed a family of four for a week. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the organisation also serves hot lunches; asking for a gold coin donation only in return. Pastor Jock says while the COVID-19 pandemic has placed extra pressure on the outlet’s operations, it has continued steadily thanks to the efforts of its dedicated volunteers.
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Loaves and Fishes CEO Pastor Jock Bamford
is committed to helping those in need
“You’re asking me how it works and I’m telling you sometimes I stop and think about it myself,” Pastor Jock says. “But I put it down to a total and absolute miracle. “We’ve got eight people doing 30 people’s work so for anybody out there, if you would like to come and help us we would deeply appreciate it.”
Story taken from Our Logan magazine (volume 91), Our thanks to Managing Editor: Rebecca Smith, the magazine team and everyone at the Logan City Council