Creating Chances & Breaking Generational Cycles: Q&A with Fruit2Work

Fruit2Work is an award-winning, certified social enterprise dedicated to creating new chances and meaningful prospects for individuals impacted by the justice system.

Their work goes beyond providing employment—they offer structured mentorship and practical support, empoweing individuals to rebuild their lives, overcome societal stigma, and break generational cycles.

By fostering resilience and opening pathways for personal and professional growth, Fruit2Work exemplifies how purposeful business can drive real change, leaving a lasting legacy in the community.

As a proud customer, Mosaic Property Group recently had the privilege of sitting down with Rebecca, Fruit2Work’s valued Business Development Manager with lived experience, to delve deeper into their inspiring journey.

Rebecca shared insights into the organisation’s mission, the challenges they face, and the remarkable outcomes they achieve through their unwavering commitment to social change.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Fruit2Work and how it all started?

Fruit2Work was founded on the belief that everyone deserves a second chance.

“We saw a gap in the opportunities available for individuals transitioning from the justice system and wanted to create a pathway for them to reintegrate back into society.”

By combining this with the need for quality food supplies in businesses, Fruit2Work was born. It started in Melbourne, and after nine years of success, we’ve expanded to Queensland.

What is the core mission of Fruit2Work, and how does it influence your day-to-day operations?

Our mission is to provide employment opportunities for individuals impacted by the justice system. This mission shapes every aspect of our work, from selecting suppliers to offering tailored training and support for our employees.

It’s about more than just delivering products—it’s about fostering a positive, supportive work environment free from judgment or stigma, where personal and professional growth can thrive.

Can you tell us more about the scope of services that Fruit2Work provides?

We supply high-quality fruit, milk, vending and pantry items to businesses in Queensland and Melbourne. More than just a supplier, we are a Not for Profit Social Enterprise and Registered Charity providing a platform for individuals to gain meaningful employment, learning transferable skills and putting money back into the community.

What is the process like for someone transitioning into work at Fruit2Work?

We provide structured training and mentorship to help individuals adapt to their new roles.

“Our focus is on developing both practical skills and personal confidence, with ongoing support to ensure their success.”

Our aim is to prepare them not only for their roles at Fruit2Work but also for long-term employment opportunities beyond. This effort is carried out alongside helping them reunite with their families.

What is Fruit2Work’s biggest achievement?

Our greatest achievement is maintaining a zero-recidivism rate over our nine years of business operations, meaning that no one from our program has reoffended. This underscores the tangible impact we’ve had on the lives of our employees, many of whom have successfully built stable careers.

Additionally, our expansion into Queensland has been a significant milestone, enabling us to further our mission and support even more individuals.

Tell us about the positive social impact that Fruit2Work is making.

Fruit2Work creates chances transforming lives! Many of our employees have found stability and a renewed sense of purpose, while the broader community benefits from reduced recidivism and safer, more inclusive environments.

The ripple effect is significant, impacting not just the individuals but their families—parents, children, siblings, and extended relatives.

Children are being raised by parents who are now positive role models, breaking generational cycles.

Additionally, by partnering with local suppliers, we support the regional economy and promote sustainable business practices.

How do you source the produce, and why is it important to partner with local growers?

We work with trusted local suppliers like Simon George and Sons for fruit and Norco for milk.

Partnering locally not only ensures product quality and freshness, but it also supports the Queensland economy, strengthens community ties, and reduces our environmental footprint.

What role do corporate partnerships play in supporting Fruit2Work’s mission, and how can businesses get involved?

Corporate partnerships are vital to our success. By selecting Fruit2Work as their supplier, businesses play a direct role in creating employment opportunities for individuals impacted by the justice system.

Companies can engage with us by purchasing our products, providing support, or advocating for our mission. We are a volume-driven business, and your involvement can make a significant difference!

What are some challenges facing organisations like Fruit2Work?

The biggest challenge we face is overcoming the stigma associated with individuals who have a criminal record.

“While we actively work to dismantle these barriers, securing sustainable funding and fostering long-term partnerships remain ongoing challenges.”

Additionally, gaining acceptance within the community and educating organisations about the value of social enterprises is crucial, as we often need to convey our mission and impact to every potential customer.

If there’s one message you’d like to share with readers about the importance of creating chances, what would it be?

Creating opportunities changes lives. Not only does the individual benefit, but their children—our future—also reap the rewards.

With the right support, people can rebuild, contribute positively to society, and transform their lives. We witness this every day at Fruit2Work, demonstrating that a person’s past does not have to dictate their future.

What are Fruit2Work’s goals for the future?

We aim to expand further across Queensland/Australia, increasing the number of people we can help and building stronger relationships with local businesses. Ultimately, we hope to continue reducing recidivism and fostering supportive, inclusive communities nationwide.