Certified social enterprise Fruit2Work delivers fresh fruit, milk, and pantry essentials to prominent Melbourne organisations such as the City of Melbourne, Monash University, Mirvac, Lendlease, and John Holland. More than just a food delivery service, Fruit2Work focuses on providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals impacted by the justice system, aiming to facilitate their reintegration into society post-sentence. Fruit2Work has made a notable impact, successfully employing over 100 individuals and attaining a world leading and impressive zero recidivism rate.
From initiative to independence: Fruit2Work's evolution and impactful model
Founded in 2016 as an initiative within the Whitelion charity, Fruit2Work became an independent social enterprise in 2018. In 2019, it received certification from Social Traders. Since then, Fruit2Work has continued to grow and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals affected by the justice system.
“Due to Fruit2Work’s involvement with the Social Traders Grow Program, we have experienced growth through new contracts. This has contributed to the need for Fruit2Work to open a second facility in Hallam to service our southeast Melbourne clients,” says Fruit2Work, Business Developer Manager, Keith Fernández.
Impact beyond employment
One of Fruit2Work's most significant achievements is its impeccable track record of zero recidivism among its participants. This stands in stark contrast to the national average recidivism rate of approximately 50%, where one in two individuals released from prison relapse into criminal behaviour within the first two years. Fruit2Work's success can be attributed to its robust training, culture and employment support program, which not only provides a source of income but also imparts valuable life skills and a sense of purpose. "I didn't feel like I was being judged; I didn't feel like I was being looked at differently."- Nat Caldwell, Fruit2Work employee.
The enterprise has provided employment for over 100 individuals who have overcome the challenges associated with their pasts, and as of their latest report, it employs 68 people. Fruit2Work has garnered the trust of more than a thousand organisations in the corporate and government sectors in Victoria, who support their mission and appreciate their quality service.
Resilient growth and fiscal success
Fruit2Work's rapid growth is testament to its impact on society. Driven by the Victorian government's Social Enterprise Strategy, the organisation has expanded its operations significantly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fruit2Work not only survived the lockdowns but thrived, doubling its annual revenue from $1.2 million in FY21 to $2.7 million in FY22.
‘’All of our members were able to stay in the program thanks to our financial independence and the support of our reliable and ongoing clients and partners. Being a certified social enterprise has been absolutely essential on our journey,”- Rob Brown, Chief Chance Creator, Fruit2Work
Expanding horizons: Fruit2Work's vision for national reach
To further amplify its social impact, Fruit2Work has ambitious plans for expansion. Stuart Borg, appointed as Group Growth Manager in January 2023, is spearheading a plan to bring Fruit2Work's services to Brisbane by 2024 and Sydney by 2025.
“Given Fruit2Work’s success and quality of service demonstrated in Melbourne, organisations based in Brisbane have already expressed their interest in supporting our growth as clients’’.
Fruit2Work stands as a shining example of a social enterprise making a significant and lasting impact on society. With its commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities and a zero-recidivism rate, it has not only transformed the lives of individuals impacted by the justice system, but also garnered the support and trust of numerous organisations. As Fruit2Work continues to expand its reach, its mission to help those rebuilding their lives after prison remains central to its purpose.