Access Street Vans – Embodying compassion and community spirit

It’s special to experience a moment of clarity as to your life direction and purpose. That’s exactly what Pastor Russell experienced in 1993 when visiting Bath, England. While there, Pastor Russell came across a woman who needed help. Speaking with her, Pastor Russell had an epiphany and recognised his
calling in life, helping others.

For the past 25 years, Pastor Russell and his wife Betty have been doing precisely that with Access Street Vans. Located in Mansfield, Access Street Vans stands as a beacon of hope and compassion. As a Member Charity of Foodbank Queensland, Access Street Vans dedicates its efforts to providing food relief and encouragement to those in need.

Picture this: everyday Queenslanders just like you, your family, or your friends, facing tough times. They’re cold, hungry, and scared, seeking refuge wherever they can find it. But thanks to Access Street Vans, help is on the way.

Access Street Vans serve as a lifeline for individuals and families facing food insecurity across Brisbane. Their goal is simple yet impactful: to help turn people’s lives around for the better.

Each week, the Access Street Vans team drives vans out to different parts of Brisbane and shares meals and prayers with those in need. Every Wednesday, their successful ‘Adopt-a-Pensioner’ program is run to support 20 to 30 individuals with food parcels. This program’s goal is to bring hope and dignity to Queensland’s older generation. All of this is provided free of cost.

The need for organisations like Access Street Vans is undeniable. From providing meals to those experiencing homelessness to supporting pensioners, their impact reaches far and wide.

“We give the food out to anybody and everybody. Whatever religion they are, we have no limitations, everyone’s equal.” – Pastor Russell

Access Street Vans’ 20-year-old partnership with Foodbank Queensland strengthens their ability to make a difference. Through this collaboration, they gain access to essential groceries, enabling them to help even more people in need throughout Brisbane.

But Access Street Vans is more than just a provider of food. They represent the spirit of community and care. Volunteers and supporters play a crucial role in their mission, coming together to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

“It’s a privilege for me and my wife to do what we’re doing.” – Pastor Russell

Pastor Russell’s efforts and selfless actions were recognised in 2009 when he was awarded Brisbane Citizen of the Year. However, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. In 2019 they faced a setback when an Access Street Van was stolen from their Mansfield hub. Never to be returned, Pastor Russell, his wife, and volunteers rallied, determined to recover.

The sight of an Access Street Van navigating the streets of Brisbane serves as a reminder of how simple acts of kindness can transform people’s lives. So, the next time you see an Access Street Van in your neighbourhood, take a moment to reflect on the importance of their operations.

They are more than just vehicles delivering food; they are symbols of hope, unity, and the unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one in Brisbane goes hungry. As a member of Foodbank Queensland, Access Street Vans stands as a beacon of light in the fight against hunger.

If you are in a position to help Foodbank Queensland provide more food across the state to support Queenslanders in need, please consider joining the fight against hunger as a regular giver.