A special delivery for drought affected Queenslanders.

With 57% of the landmass in Queensland drought declared, Foodbank Queensland is giving an immediate donation of 150 food and grocery hampers, which will help regional and rural families in need. The hampers were packed by Unilever staff, using Unilever products that were donated to Foodbank.

Foodbank Queensland CEO Michael Rose says the charity supports Queenslanders in need, including drought impacted families all year round, and demand is sure to increase over the next few months. The delivery is part of an ongoing commitment to helping regional Queenslanders.

“Queensland farmers are incredibly generous, donating more than five million kg’s of fresh produce last year. But we know every farming community is different. Most of the produce has come from regions closer to the coast. The drought affects many communities, especially those in Western Queensland, and we are listening to what the agencies on the ground are telling us. The drought has exacerbated the usual demand for food relief in some regions, and we are doing all we can to help local agencies meet the additional demand.” said Rose.

Aussie Helpers Co-Founder Brian Egan says the charity he started 17 years ago has been overwhelmed by families needing help. And he says he understands it is hard for people in metropolitan areas to understand the toll the drought is taking on regional communities.

“I get lost for words, but we all need to contribute to keep these farms going, otherwise they won’t be there anymore. And once the farms go, the towns go too”.

Everyone can help! With additional food supplies coming in from generous food producers and manufacturers, what is really needed are funds to transport the goods to the people in regional areas who need it the most.