WHAT started out as an offer for a free meal has grown to create a small community of people who can get the support they need, no questions asked.
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In August, the Bathurst Community Op Shop began a food van service two nights a week to provide a free meal to the homeless and those down on their luck.
Mayor Bobby Bourke, who is heavily involved in the running of the op shop, said the service has continued to be used and now averages around 10 people each night.
"It's been well used. The volunteers that do it have a good understanding of the people they are dealing with," he said.
"We don't ask them where they're coming from, it's just an opportunity to eat and talk to someone.
"It's not that they are just hungry, it's just a place where they have an opportunity to sit down and mix with people."
The food van is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, between 5pm and 7pm.
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Meals provided have been prepared by a retired chef, using ingredients that are either from the Bathurst community garden or have been donated by businesses.
"I haven't had a complaint about the meals. They are always cooked by a chef and there's no limit on tea and coffee," Cr Bourke said.
"... The other night we nearly ran out of food. It's a big indication that the meal is good because we nearly ran out."
But the generosity of the op shop and it's volunteers doesn't stop there.
Cr Bourke said that he has a washing machine set up outside as well so the people who come along to the food van have a chance to wash clothes if they need to.
There is also a shower available for those who are in need of a wash.
Cr Bourke said the support being offered to the homeless and those down on their luck was made possible thanks to the kindness of volunteers and people in the community who have made donations.
He also wanted to acknowledge the support of local Member Paul Toole.
Cr Bourke has sent some visitors to the food van to Dave's Barbers for a haircut and Mr Toole pays the bill.
"He's trying to be different to the high-up ministers. He wants to be down here helping with the mayor," Cr Bourke said.
Cr Bourke said that, as long as people continue to come along, the op shop will make the effort to keep the food van operating.
