Despite revenue having fallen about 50 per cent, a Stanmore business is giving out free meals & food hampers to those in need during the coronavirus pandemic. Owners Diego Diaz & Camila Prieto of Más Tinto want to spread a message: There is no shame in coming in and asking for help. The Colombian couple have a “no questions asked” policy. Those in need of more than one free meal are offered a hamper, which is about one week’s worth of food supplies.

The hampers include rice, pasta, cans of tuna and other non-perishable items, many of which are donated by loyal customers. “More people are willing to donate than to receive,” Ms Prieto said. “They are a bit ashamed of coming in (and asking for a meal) but we are trying to promote that it’s fine. We are not making marketing out it."

Those taking up the offer of the Colombian eatery’s free meals include many international workers & students, many of whom are employed in the threatened hospitality industry. Ms Prieto understands this dilemma first hand, with many of her eight shop employees not being permanent residents. At one time, all eight employees worked in the cafe at the same time, but they have now reduced shifts in order to keep all the staff on the payroll. Some of them will not be eligible for Jobseeker payments.