By now, everyone knows that the cost-of-living is soaring, with the price of groceries seemingly increasing each time you step foot in a store.
One local mum is hoping to make a difference for the community, with the help of Box Divvy.
Box Divvy is an online food co-operative where neighbourhood groups, known as ‘hubs’, connect through an app to buy produce at wholesale prices.
Up to 60 cents of every dollar goes directly to farmers, whilst consumers are also saving money – produce is up to 30 per cent cheaper than online supermarkets.
Cranebrook mother of twins, Ash Borland, became a ‘Hubster’ in April this year, after the opportunity presented itself to her.
“I heard about Box Divvy a while ago and was inspired by its mission to support local farmers instead of big supermarkets,” she said.
“When our local Box Divvy person, known as a Hubster, couldn’t continue, I saw an opportunity to step in and help out, especially given the rising cost-of-living and the poor quality of supermarket produce.”
As a Hubster, Borland’s role is to pack the orders made by Box Divvy members of the fruit, vegetables and groceries they need online weekly or fortnightly. She then opens up shop each Thursday, sometimes with the help of her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law, to deliver these orders.
For Borland, one of the key takeaways she’s had from the experience so far is how much she adores having a community around her. Currently, she serves 38 families, many of which can relate to her experience of being a mother with children who require regular speech and occupational therapy.
“Connecting with other mums, especially those with children who have similar needs, has been incredible. The support from the community has been overwhelming,” she said.
It has also influenced her, and other Box Divvy members’, perspectives on food.
“I’ve learned so much about getting good quality produce and avoiding supermarkets. I’m committed to never buying fruit and vegetables from supermarkets again,” she said.
“People love the produce and appreciate supporting farmers. They value the price transparency and not ripping them off. Supporting local farmers while saving money and getting fresh, healthy produce resonates with everyone.
“I’m keen to grow our community to provide even greater access to fresh, quality
food while also increasing income for my family.”
Visit http://www.boxdivvy.com for more information.
Cassidy Pearce
Cassidy Pearce is a news and entertainment journalist with The Western Weekender. A graduate of the University of Technology Sydney, she has previously worked with Good Morning Macarthur and joined the Weekender in 2022.