The Food is Free movement has been growing since 2012. What started as one front yard garden bed has bolted onto a grassroots movement, taking place in over 300 cities around the world, including Melbourne.

In March 2015 Paul Sargeant and his family pitched a sign inviting their neighbours to enjoy the spoils of their garden. Food Is Free Sunshine took its roots and is slowly growing to be a permanent fixture in the community.

“Yeah,  you just have to boil it down to essentials and fundamentals. I mean we need food, we need a roof and we need clothes. Three staples. But there’s one missing and that’s social engagement with your community.” ~Paul Sargeant~

When Paul was interviewed by Channel 7 he sent an email around work to share the news. It caught my eye and imagination. For something so seemingly simple it reaps great rewards! It’s exactly the thoughtful and progressive act of kindness that inspires connection and action. I asked Paul if I could interview him and was welcomed into the Sargeant Home with cups of tea, a guided tour by Will (3) and a special meet and greet with Goldie his favourite hen.

“Food is Free is not a community garden [it’s] growing for the community” ~Paul Sargeant~

The basic concept is growing whatever you want and sharing it. However, Paul and Kate’s aim is to demonstrate to their kids and peers that sharing shouldn’t just be among those involved with a group or movement. They have made it entirely inclusive.

“Give it away because then the community is going to feel like you are doing something for them and hopefully you’ll be an inspiration and inspire them to do the same thing. Or at least to engage them in it.”

Kate’s mother once questioned the name “Food is Free” because “food’s not free it’s bloody hard work.” Both Paul and Kate took it as food for thought and a fair point in some ways but they stand by the concept and prefer to work hard for their food because for all their energy and effort they reap the benefits of nutritious, delicious and seasonal fruits and vegetables that enrich their community and breaks away from dependency on a clunky and often unfair system.

The Food is Free Sunshine Facebook group reflects their family values of being inclusive and supportive. The regular updates are encouraging and very heartwarming not to mention very helpful. Since joining I have managed to sprout shallots, garlic, basil and chillies.

“What I like about Food is Free is that it’s very broad,” Paul explained that gardening should not scare people away which is why he not too phased by people asking about all sorts of cultivations. “I don’t care if it’s GM I don’t care if it’s organic, I don’t care if it’s permaculture I don’t care if he plants something that’s poisonous. At least he’s planting something, he’s getting his hands in there and that’s the first step in learning.”
So get into it! Learn to plant, grow and feast on your hard work- it’s delicious.