If not for a chance moment on a cold Autumn night 19 years ago, Manna Inc would not have started its crucial work that has kept thousands of homeless and children from going hungry.

The charity is one of Fremantle’s 2015 Community Event Partners and recently player ambassador Jon Griffin got a taste of the organisation’s vital function.

“It’s been a huge eye opener,” he said.

“They are incredible people for what they’ve done over the past 19 years.”

Bev and John Lowe started the charity after the couple spotted a group of homeless people in Perth.

“We were driving down Newcastle Street and it was raining, I noticed a group of people sitting under these trees,” Bev said.

“We came back five hours later and they were still there.

“I said John let’s go home and make soup, that’s how Manna Inc started.”

The group are now serving an astonishing 6000 meals a week.

“When we started, we never imagined it would go on for 19 years,” she said.

“It seems such a simple thing to do, just make a big pot of soup and bring it to feed the people.”

Now with about 200 volunteers, Manna Inc, has become a critical life-line for many across the city.

Many, who have only recently found themselves without a roof over their head.

“We are feeding people who had two cars, a job and a house but are now here in the line,” Bev said.

Grffin volunteered his time to help hand out food and clothing as part of the group’s soup van.

“We’re here giving out some food and gear, some beanies and scarves,” he said.

 “I’m really proud and honoured to be part of what they’re doing here.

“It’s amazing what it has turned out to be today.”

Manna Inc also provides a school breakfast program and warm winter clothing for students.

Griffin said breakfast was vital, especially for children.

“It’s one of the most important meals of the day and if kids are skipping breakfast it’s a huge problem when they’re needing to learn,” he said.