GOODNA Street Life has officially launched its new Foodbank and Community Service Hub, a vital resource for families and individuals in need across the region.
Located at 9 Layard St in Goodna, the facility is set to provide essential food relief and support services to residents, addressing the growing demand for such services.
The hub will offer both fresh and non-perishable food items, as well as access to critical resources for the community.
With the capacity to distribute 210 tonnes of food annually, the new service is a welcome addition for many who have been facing hardship.
The launch marks a significant achievement for Goodna Street Life, which was on the brink of closure just 12 months ago.
Co-founders Helen Youngberry and Stephen Purcell expressed their pride in the reopening of the hub, calling it a “community success story” made possible by tireless effort and the generous support of local businesses and individuals.
“This is a proud moment for all of us,” Ms Youngberry said.
“We’re back doing what we do best – helping our community.
“Thanks to people and businesses who believe in our mission, like Natalia from Club Services Ipswich, we are able to continue making a difference.”
A key supporter in the hub’s reopening was Club Services Ipswich, who contributed a $5000 donation
to help bring the project to life.
General manager Natalia Onoprichuk emphasised the importance of supporting Goodna Street Life’s mission, which includes offering housing assistance, crisis accommodation, food services, mental health support, and more.
“Goodna Street Life is dedicated to addressing the needs of the Goodna community,” Ms Onoprichuk said.
“We’re proud to partner with them and ensure they can continue offering these essential services.”
The impact of Goodna Street Life’s work can be seen in the story of Ipswich mother Ashleigh Sidney, whose family was once homeless after losing their rental during devastating floods.
Seeking refuge at Laurel’s Place, Goodna Street Life’s family crisis centre, Ms Sidney’s family received the support they needed to rebuild their lives.
“Goodna Street Life has been a beacon of hope for us,” Ms Sidney said.
“Our children began thriving again, and we’ll always be grateful for the support we received.”
Ms Sidney’s children are now enrolled at Goodna State School, and her family has regained stability.
Ms Sidney herself participated in a traineeship through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
