Essential SoupBus challenged but serving

THE OnTrack Foundation is continuing the operation of its SoupBus for as long as possible, with Ballarat’s homeless and vulnerable more needy than ever.

Craig Schepis said his team is meeting daily to develop new strategies so the evening meal service, labelled essential, can keep people fed and safe, compliant with COVID-19 regulations.

“We are still trying to continue the service because the vulnerability of our clientele is as high as our older people within the community. We’re also seeing a few new faces coming through that weren’t there before,” he said.

“It’s proving to be challenging. We’ve had to reduce the number of volunteers on each crew so we have safe distancing inside the bus, as well as trying to cater for a bit of a rise in numbers.

“Everything served is one way, so nothing comes back and it’s all disposed of.”

The SoupBus is working to ensure people are not only looked after when it comes to food, but also hygiene.

“We’ve got a number of people sleeping rough, and our big concern is that if one of them contracts the virus, that’s where they’ll stay. They’ll die on the street,” Mr Schepis said.

“Ballarat Health Services is donating their grade of hand wash.”

Restaurants and cafes are closing that have been SoupBus partners, usually giving fresh food to the service five days a week. Servings are changing as the hospitality industry shifts.

“Our non-perishables are starting to dwindle and so we’re not able to give out as many things as we once were able to, but we’ll continue to do what we can for as long as we can, or until it’s physically impossible,” Mr Schepis said.

The foundation may look to train new people to serve, or drive the SoupBus, as volunteer numbers decrease. As some of the usual helpers are from an older age bracket, they’re starting to stay home.

The service has reduced its hours, but can still be found outside Camerons on Armstrong Street south for now.

The SoupBus is accessible on Sunday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, and Monday through Thursday from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Visit facebook.com/TheSoupBus.