3000 WELLBEING
Miss Meaningful Column
Janine Phillips aka Miss Meaningful
is passionate about philanthropy and business with a love of combining the two living by the motto ‘one devoted person can initiate change’. Make sure you Visit her blog at missmeaningful.com.au
magmedia.com.au
26
Pay A Sack Forward…
This story starts in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. Michael Stafford realised the potential to make a difference through his business, BAM Espresso, by donating some profits from every cup of coffee sold towards creating survival sacks for the homeless in the area.
of purpose to realise it here. In six months, Ryan has managed to build support with 30 caring cafes and make a difference in the lives of many. You can feel the dedication to the cause when Ryan shares stories of giving the sacks to those in need. He has such humble respect for their welfare.
and Ryan run it themselves including packing and delivering to the homeless. It’s certainly not a 9-5 job and often has them visiting food vans and shelters late at night. I asked Ryan: why do you do it? His response: “It combines my love of coffee, building friendships and making a difference.”
Michael felt he could do more and expanded his idea into Pay a Sack Forward. The program asks customers of supportive cafes to donate funds to assist with the making of the survival sacks. The sacks include much-needed items such as a pillow, blanket, tuna, cereal, milk, baked beans, toothbrush, toothpaste and water. They cost $5 to make but people can donate as much as they like in the donation tube provided at the cafés counter.
The City of Melbourne’s Homelessness Strategy 2011–13 identified that 1,302 people are experiencing homelessness in Melbourne. Homelessness is prevalent in Australia with over 105,000 homeless (2011 ABS Census), 44 per cent of which are women*.
With 90 outlets across Brisbane and Melbourne generously supporting the fundraising they are really making a difference. A recent partnership with Rewardle, and other exciting collaborations, is good news and ensures their ability to continue. However, they still need more support. Do you have a favourite café? Why not ask them to contact Pay a Sack Forward and join the movement?!
One sunny day while visiting Brisbane a kindred spirit named Ryan Everett walked into Michael’s café and felt an immediate connection to the cause. He knew the idea was needed in Melbourne and felt a sense
I visited the legendary Neighbours Café in St Kilda to hear how the patrons embrace the idea. The manager, Jon, explained, “We loved the idea and felt it was going to resonate with our customers. Homelessness is prevalent in the area and seeing it on a daily basis means we will not ignore it. Pay a Sack Forward is the perfect fit for our business and our customers.” As a non-profit, Michael
To donate or express your interest you can visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/PayASackForward or phone 1300 796 211. Stay tuned for their new and improved website at www.payasackforward.com.