This modern food cooperative, which she runs from her garage, now serves 55 families with weekly deliveries of fresh produce, pantry items, and more. Originally a Box Divvy member herself, Michelle joined the Hub when her neighbourhood fruit and vegetable service closed.
“It was disheartening to think we’d have to rely only on big supermarkets,” she said. “Box Divvy restored access to fresh, local food for our area, and it’s been fantastic knowing we’re supporting farmers directly.”
Box Divvy operates much like a co-op. Members order groceries online from local farmers and suppliers. By buying in bulk from the source, Box Divvy allows families to save up to 30% on their grocery bills.
Orders are delivered weekly to a nearby Hub—often set up in a neighbour’s garage or a community centre—for easy collection. This model also ensures that 60 cents of every dollar goes to farmers which is significantly more than what large supermarkets typically pay.
With over 13,000 members and 280 Hubs across NSW and the ACT, and plans for national expansion underway - Box Divvy is empowering communities to reshape the food system. Members pay no joining fees. They simply commit to ordering regularly to help keep the Hub running smoothly
Michelle’s Hub quickly filled up and has a waitlist of eager members. It’s become more than just a place to collect groceries; it’s a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds.
An intergenerational family of grandparents, children, and grandkids forms the heart of the group, with all three generations passionate about fresh, vegetarian meals.
“We’ve shared so much together - births, a passing, and all the milestones in between,” Michelle says. “If someone’s doing it tough, we organise a kindness box and let them know they can come back whenever they’re ready.”
For Michelle, the Hub has become a family affair, with her youngest daughter helping as part of her homeschooling.
“She earns a bit of income from it and learns responsibility, which is great,” Michelle says.
“Box Divvy has encouraged my kids to care about where their food comes from and to eat more mindfully.”
Michelle loves using Box Divvy’s offerings to explore new recipes and share ideas with members.
“As well as affordability, Box Divvy promotes sustainability. Low food miles, minimal packaging, and zero food waste are just some benefits of the cooperative model, which sources only what members order.
“Knowing we’re reducing our impact on the environment while saving money makes a big difference,” Michelle adds.
As demand for fresh, affordable groceries grows, Michelle encourages others on the Central Coast to consider starting their own Box Divvy Hubs.
“Running a Box Divvy Hub does take commitment, but it’s incredibly rewarding,” she shares. “You earn an income while being part of something bigger, supporting farmers and building community in a meaningful way.”
For more information or to join a local Box Divvy Hub, visit www.boxdivvy.com
