The Community Grocer

Fitzroy, Melbourne

Every week, every Tuesday I head to pick up my fruit and veg from @thecommunitygrocer in Fitzroy. A not-for-profit social enterprise, it's here every week to provide affordable, culturally appropriate food to the local community. Tess the lovely general manager who runs the market here tells me how "dignity is important for us, you don’t need a card to prove that you need it, it's open to everyone. Everyone can come. Those who need it and those who support us". The Community Grocer moves beyond the typical welfare style of handing out free food.

Community-led in every way - the variety of produce depends heavily on the local residents' demand, the staff and volunteers who run the market are all members of the local community and you're sure to find a little community member initiative going on. One day it's local ladies making chai or selling samosas, another it's freshly baked bread. (Unfortunately the community activities are on hold during current Covid19 restrictions).

And this is just Fitzroy! At it's full, The Community Grocer operates 5 markets: Carlton, Fitzroy, Fawkner, Heidelberg West and Pakenham. All different, led by their community and full of greatness.

So a quick look again. Cheaper than supermarkets, friendly environment, good for the community... this is why I go every Tuesday! See you there (from a social distance) tomorrow?

CHECK OUT MORE at https://www.thecommunitygrocer.com.au/

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