From Guest to Giver: Jessica’s Journey with Rosies BBQ

It was 3 years ago that Jessica Woods first attended the Aspley BBQ – a monthly meal hosted by Rosies Brisbane North Branch.  

Jessica at home

“I was living at Aspley Acres with my mother and brother when some of the lovely volunteers came through the caravan park and letting us know there was a BBQ on,” Jessica recalls.  

Jessica hadn’t heard of Rosies before and was a bit “taken aback” to be invited to the outreach. “I had been living in the caravan park for about 4 months, and I wasn’t used to hearing about people putting on a BBQ for people living in caravan parks or the homeless, but the volunteers were warm and inviting so we went.” 

“The volunteers were very welcoming, and it had a good atmosphere. It made me feel good to attend and to be a part of the community.” 

From then on Jessica would attend the BBQ on the first Sunday of every month whenever she could. “I missed a few here and there but would always try and attend. It was a nice community – not just the volunteers but the other attendees as well. Sometimes in between BBQs I’d see them around and stop and chat. It was good to know your neighbours, we’d made friends with a few people in the park after that.” 

“It’s a relaxing day out with good people and a good atmosphere.” 

Jessica is now a support worker for both the disability and aged care sector. She now occasionally brings her clients to the different outreach locations so that they too can experience the importance of connection and community. “I brought one of my clients to a Sunday BBQ and he was really quiet while we were there but on the way home in the car, he would not stop talking about how much he enjoyed it.” 

“I also took one of my clients to one of your locations in Beenleigh – that was really good. I wish more people knew that Rosies was there for them, it’s a great opportunity for connection and a good resource for the homeless.” 

On the importance of organisation like Rosies Jessica said, “It’s very important for people to have somewhere like Rosies to go, because of the interaction with other people and the volunteers – you can make friends and have that connection. People can actually talk; it’s a good thing.”  

“I have very fond memories of Liza and Michael from the BBQ – they were always friendly and welcoming. We always had a great time together.” 

For Jessica the simple invitation to join the Sunday BBQ meant so much. As a thank you to the volunteers who welcomed her, Jessica wanted to give back, “I’d been to the BBQ quite a few times and had a good experience and thought now that I’m working, I’d donate.”  

“I’d like to give more in the future,” she said.  

If you are looking for friendship and connection, please view our outreach schedule to find the outreach nearest you.