But drought and winter and the ups and downs of life ensure that there are hundreds of people in Tamworth struggling to get by. There are also a host of people who want to help.

Now Liberty Foodcare is open five days a week, still in Roberts Street next to the library, but with a staff of 30 volunteers and 600 customers a month.

This is a community supermarket with a difference. It is a place where struggling people can buy the basic necessities to get them through at a very low price. In fact, if you've got no money at all, they'll still find something for you.

It's made possible by Food Bank, a national operation that collects surplus food from supermarkets and distributes it around the country.

More than that, it's a place to give people hope. Hope that they can get through the next fortnight.

Team members will take time to listen and weep and pray. It's a place where hopelessness meets hope and love is the bridge.

"People share their lives with us," says manager, Wendy Klassen.

"They start to regard us as friends. They know there's love here. They can come in and they won't be judged.

"We're not pushing Jesus on people, but when they feel the vibe in the place, they are eager to talk about what drives it. Many want to join a Bible study to learn more.

Some of them end up joining the team at the shop."