FOODBANK NSW & ACT CEO MESSAGE

I’m delighted to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is John Robertson and I recently came on board as Foodbank NSW & ACT Chief Executive Officer.

The first role I ever had at Foodbank was over a decade ago, as a volunteer. Like you, I wanted to make a difference. I’ve been right there on the front line, packing hampers and driving vehicles, and sometimes had the privilege to meet the people who needed those hampers. The expressions on their faces when they received our support – it showed me why we do what we do. To bring relief, happiness and hope, where there was none.

I’ve spent most of my working life helping people through the careers I have had, and I know you understand that feeling. It brings purpose to your life, doesn’t it? I know this is why you are a passionate supporter of Foodbank – because you understand that living with hunger is incredibly tough.

Because it’s not just about food, it’s about opportunity. Parents who put food to one side to pay bills begin to lose hope. Kids who go to school with empty lunchboxes can’t concentrate on their schoolwork. It’s not just about today, tonight, or tomorrow, it’s about the future. That’s why your generosity is so, so important. You’re creating new opportunities, new hope.

After serving as Chief Operating Officer at Foodbank over the past three years, this role has given me a whole fresh insight into the power of collective effort – and the importance of your contribution to that effort. It’s such an honour to be leading a team that wakes up every day ready to bring hope and fight hunger, and you are critical to this team. Because we could not do what we do without you.

Please, don’t ever underestimate the value of your donation. When I was working behind the scenes, I was amazed at how far even one dollar would go. The economies of scale we have at Foodbank can convert that one dollar into two meals, 10 dollars to 20 meals… and on and on. When we pool every single donation together, that’s support for entire communities going through tough times.

Every day, I’m humbled by the spirit of the Aussie families we support, and thankful for people like you, who open your heart to make a difference.

So, thank you so much for all that you do. We couldn’t feed hope without you.

John Robertson
CEO Foodbank NSW & ACT