Closure
Ipswich Foodbarn, a charity providing low-cost groceries, laundry facilities, and domestic violence support, will close on Saturday after the building's owner revoked its lease. The service operated for 14 years.
Impact
General Manager Qim Kauwhata said the charity serves between 5,000 and 9,000 people weekly.
She expressed concern for domestic violence victims who relied on furniture provided by the charity for relocation. Customer Elizabeth Dite described the closure as potentially catastrophic for many people. Customer Davina Daylight said she will miss the community atmosphere.
Responses
The charity issued a last-ditch social media appeal for a new location and wrote to Ipswich City Council, but received no offers.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding stated that council officers have provided practical support and advice for finding a new location.
She noted that the charity is eligible for council community funding programs, but that council is typically not the level of government to provide significant financial assistance or accommodation for such services.