Bushfire update – your kindness in action

I’d like to send a heartfelt message of thanks, to you and every Victorian who has helped Foodbank respond swiftly to Australia’s bushfire crisis. I’m so proud of how everyone is pulling together, reaching out and doing anything they can to help communities devastated by fire. The team at Foodbank could not have achieved so much, so quickly, without you.

Your kind donations have been used to answer immediate need. You have enabled the supply of tonnes of food and water for hungry families, not forgetting safe storage and transport, some by sea and air. All of this action comes at a cost – not just the cost of food but electricity, shelving, fuel, servicing and maintenance of our fleet of vehicles.

Working hand-in-hand with evacuation centres and agencies on the ground, we have been able to ensure people who have been left with nothing are not going hungry. Speaking with these agencies, we hear firsthand the stories of heartbreak and gratitude. Please be rest assured that Victorians who are receiving help thanks to you, are so grateful.

What is most frightening however, is the unknown scale of need going forward. People have lost homes and businesses, and found their communities displaced. Some families have to start again with absolutely nothing and no livelihood to support them.

Recovery will take years. And while there will be some government support, this won’t cover everything – especially the basics like getting food on the table. As a Foodbank supporter, I know you understand the impact of hunger – the anxiety and feelings of helplessness for adults, and for children, the impact on well-being and learning.

We must be there for bushfire affected communities all over Victoria, and we are so thankful to have you by our side as we navigate the difficult road ahead. Thank you sincerely for your ongoing support.

Click here to read tales of recovery from East Gippsland.