The week-long initiative will see local people encouraged to donate non-perishable food items into the specially marked local community food drive trolley in the town’s local Woolworths.
According to the latest FoodBank hunger report, one in six adults haven’t had enough to eat in the past year and 1.2 million children have gone hungry during the same period.
Additionally, one in three Australians struggling to meet their food needs are new to the experience, demonstrating the impact COVID-19 has had on communities.
Donated items will be distributed either directly to a store’s local community food relief charity partner, or via one of Woolworths’ major food relief partners, such as OzHarvest, FareShare and Foodbank, and their network of local charities they support, to ensure Benalla residents in need receive the donated essential food items.
Woolworths Benalla has also committed to donating a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables to the Local Community Food Drive and their local community’s food relief charity.
Store manager Melinda Fawkner said food insecurity continued to be a real issue in communities across Australia and the past year had made it even more difficult for a growing number of families to access nutritious food and essentials.
“We’re committed to supporting local communities and helping those less fortunate, particularly as we head into the festive season,” Ms Fawkner said.
“I encourage Benalla customers to join us and make a donation to the Woolworths local community food drive when they shop with us.
“By simply adding a non-perishable product in the specially marked trolley, you will be helping someone in need in our local community.”
Items that have been identified by local charities as the core range of essential food relief items needed by individuals and families include:
● Breakfast cereals
● UHT and evaporated milk
● Pasta, rice and instant noodles
● Coffee and tea bags
● Canned fish or meat
● Canned fruit and vegetables
● Soups and simmer sauces
● Spreads (peanut butter, honey, jam)
● Baked beans and spaghetti
● Baby foods
Benalla customers can donate in-store at Woolworths Benalla to the Woolworths Local Community Food Drive from November 3 to November 9.
