In short:
A volunteer-run coffee van is bringing connection and practical support to vulnerable people outside Werribee train station each Saturday morning. The team is now fundraising to expand the service with showers and laundry facilities across Melbourne’s north-west.
A simple cup of coffee is becoming a source of connection and hope for vulnerable people in Werribee, thanks to a grassroots initiative run by local volunteers.
Each Saturday morning at 10.30am, Michael Puglielli and Carlo Mosca park their coffee van on Comben Drive, outside Werribee train station, serving free coffee and donuts to anyone who needs it – whether they are experiencing homelessness, feeling isolated, or simply looking for a friendly conversation.
Operating since May 2025, the van has quickly become a familiar and welcoming presence in the area. Michael and Carlo say the goal is not just to provide food and drink, but to offer dignity, kindness and human connection to people who are often overlooked.
The coffee van itself was donated by a generous member of Centerpoint Church, allowing the initiative to launch with minimal resources but a strong sense of purpose.
Now, the team is looking to expand. Plans are underway to purchase a small bus or truck, around a 26-seater size, which would allow the service to grow beyond coffee. The proposed mobile hub would include an additional coffee machine, two washing machines, two dryers, and one or two showers, with the aim of supporting people across Melbourne’s north-western suburbs.
So far, fundraisers have raised $33,000, with a target of $85,000 needed to purchase and fit out the vehicle. Further fundraising events are currently being organised.
The initiative is affiliated with Global Care Australia, but operates independently. Hope Squad Australia is described as the fastest growing initiative within the Global Care system, focusing on practical, on-the-ground support for people in crisis.
Hope Squad Australia envisions a compassionate and inclusive community where individuals and families can access essential resources such as shelter, food, clothing and support services. The group’s broader mission includes crisis intervention, counselling, healthcare and legal aid, alongside longer-term goals of education, vocational training and job readiness.
By partnering with churches, organisations and government bodies, the initiative aims to expand its reach and bring practical help, and hope, to those doing it tough across the community.
For now, it all starts each Saturday morning on Comben Drive, with a hot coffee, a donut, and a conversation.
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