The community-owned social enterprise offers an alternative way for people to buy quality fresh produce at affordable prices, direct from the farmer or wholesaler.

Box Divvy has more than 100 hubs across NSW, with local hubs in Cessnock including Abernethy, Wollombi, Greta and Kurri Kurri.

Customers can place their order online via the Box Divvy app, and have the option to split a box with another household.

The produce is picked to order and delivered to the hub for contact-free pick-up, with some hubs also offering home delivery.

Chrissy Grainger started the Abernethy hub in September 2020 after losing her job in community services during the pandemic.

She recently added a second day due to its growing popularity, and now serves more than 70 local families every Thursday and Friday.

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Ms Grainger said Box Divvy allows families to enjoy affordable, seasonal produce, cuts out the stress of going to the supermarket, and ensures farmers are paid fairly.

"Because it's picked to order, it cuts out waste," she said.

"And it lasts because it's picked so fresh.

"Families are trying new things, like dragonfruit, Chinese water spinach - things you can't get at the supermarket.

"A kid asked me when the lychees are coming back.

"Eating seasonally is a big change for some families."

Fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood and bread are available through Box Divvy. All suppliers and hubs have hygiene, packing and social distancing protocol in place.

To join a hub or find out more, visit boxdivvy.com.au.

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