They've travelled far from home to help their families in Fiji, but this group of PALM workers spends their Saturdays off cooking in Brisbane for Australians struggling with the cost of living.
In a warm and spice-scented kitchen, five Fijian workers lift their voices and sing a tune known widely back home.
They aim to save money and support their families back home — where the minimum wage is $FJD4 an hour. The workers say they're grateful for the chance to earn more money."I feel so sad ... when I people looking for food and shelter," Mr Ramasi said. The pastors started cooking meals before the COVID pandemic, when Mr Tamanisau was working at Sun Pork, and the company had extra stocks of meat.The couple first began giving cooked meals to people sleeping rough in the city.Early on, they prepared between 50 and 70 meals. These days they give out 200.
"It is my passion. I grew up back home in Fiji, in my family, what we have is for the people," Mr Tamanisau said.The food, donated by Sun Pork and Hands and Feet, is spread out in pots and containers around the kitchen.Other ingredients are ones often used in Fiji and Asian countries like the Philippines — where Ms Tamanisau grew up — including curry powder, turmeric, salt and pepper, fresh coriander, soy sauce, ginger, garlic and onions.
"We're seeing a new group of kids going to school without having breakfast. It's alarming, especially now that it's starting to get a little bit colder.Ms Langan said there is a need for the community service the PALM workers give on Saturdays.
Inflation Poverty PALM Scheme Labour Mobility Seasonal Workers Charity Roma Street Parklands Homelessness Food Costs Pacific Australia Labour Mobility
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