BAKER Robert McColl says that each of us can do our bit to help others in need.
In his case, the Redland Bay bakery owner made pies to feed about 80 homeless people at West End.
For about a year Mr McColl has donated leftover bread to the West End Christian Fellowship to give to people in need at West End.
“One night we were having smoko in the cold and I came up with the idea to bake pies,” he said.
“I just wanted to do something to help.”
He planned to come up with other ideas to help the community and ways his customers could contribute.
“Maybe we could donate money from each coffee sold until we have enough money to buy a swag or something to donate.”
Mr McColl said he had empathy for people who were living on the streets.
He had struggled to find accommodation after moving from Victoria to Queensland with his family.
“We had to stay in motels and caravan parks, which was expensive.
“We also had the kennel cost for our dog as it couldn’t stay with us.”
Mr McColl said he was fortunate to have had a job, but could understand how people could become homeless in such a situation.
He said they also provided coffee at half price to emergency services personnel.
“They get so much abuse from people when they are only just doing their job.”
Volunteer Elizabeth Carty said the bakery’s generosity made such a difference to the homeless people helped by the mission.
“It truly is amazing what they do, week in and week out,” she said.