Esther’s Story

Esther, a parent of three young children, has discovered crucial support in the Family Place Playgroups, a community initiative that has positively impacted her family’s life. With a six-year-old, a three-year-old, and a nine-month-old, Esther juggles the daily demands of parenthood, from planning activities to preparing meals. The playgroups have provided a respite and support, thanks in part to the quality, surplus food provided by SecondBite.

“I feel really blessed and lucky to have access to a place that gives out free groceries,” Esther says. The food provided reduces the financial strain on her family during a time of rising living costs and offers access to fresh fruit and vegetables, which Esther notes are surprisingly expensive.

Another advantage of the playgroups is the convenience they offer. Esther highlights how the prepared activities and meals make her life significantly easier. “They have activities set out for us; it just makes it super easy as a mum to come to these.”

The playgroups not only provide structured activities for her children but also offer a variety of fresh foods. Esther values this support greatly, as it reduces some of the financial strain of feeding her family. “Meals and preparing meals is just another added job being a mum. So it’s so easy just not having to worry about packing a lunch in the morning.”

Esther appreciates how the playgroup environment fosters a sense of community and mutual support among parents. “There’s always new things going on and new activities.”

By sharing the benefits of the playgroup with others, Esther is hoping to spread the word about the vital support it offers. “I wish more families knew about these kinds of places because its changed our lives, really. Just the support and having other mums come together and look after each other’s kids.”

The financial support provided by SecondBite is crucial for Esther’s family, especially given the current economic pressures. By supplying food at no cost, SecondBite enables the Family Place Playgroups to allocate their funds to other essential services for families. This approach helps alleviate some of the financial strain on households facing rising living costs. The surplus food provided not only offers immediate relief but also fosters a sense of community and support among the families. Through SecondBite’s contributions, the playgroups can focus on delivering high-quality and nutritious food, which is vital for families like Esther’s. This support helps ease the everyday pressures of parenting and their community experience by making sure families have access to fresh and healthy foods.

Even though it’s hard managing a household on a tight budget, Esther feels supported with the help from the Family Place Playgroups. “It’s easier to access free food here at the playgroup than going to other places because we can stay here for hours. And it entertains and we get free groceries, so it’s great.”

Esther’s story illustrates the impact of community support and access to resources. For her, the Family Place Playgroups are more than just a venue for her children—they contribute to her family’s well-being. “I feel really grateful for the support we receive. It’s made life so much easier.”

In sharing her experience, Esther hopes to encourage other families to seek out similar support systems. “I tell everybody about the Family Place because, just how much it’s done for me as an individual and for my family.”

Esther’s journey demonstrates the power of community and the significant role that support networks can play in easing the challenges of having access to fresh, nutritious food.