Who are the Big Issue?

 The Big Issue has been “at home” in the Scots Church Pulteney Street office for some years now, and you may have seen Big Issue Vendors selling magazines on city street corners. So who are the Big Issue exactly? 

“We are an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and creating job opportunities for homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged people. Simply put, we help people help themselves. We run social enterprises to create employment for people who are unable to access mainstream jobs. These enterprises operate much like traditional businesses, except all revenue is put back into the enterprises for the benefit of the individuals involved and broader community.” 

The Big Issue publishes a fortnightly magazine that Vendors can sell directly to the community in order to make an income. For every $6 Big Issue Magazine purchased, a Vendor will earn $3. You can also order a subscription to the Big Issue Magazine through the Women's Subscription Enterprise which gives women work opportunities that [don’t] rely on selling on the streets. Under this model, there is no pressure on women to make sales. What's more, they work in a women’s-only space, providing a safe and secure environment, as well as access to training, mentoring and support. 

The poem below (referred to in Rev Dr Dean Eland’s message) is written by Adelaide Vendor Daniel K.

 

For more information about the Big Issue, to read Vendor profiles, or to subscribe or make a donation, you can visit their website at www.thebigissue.org.au