Many regional areas are far from major distribution hubs, requiring long-distance transportation for fresh produce, meat, and other goods. Fuel costs for these journeys add up, and these expenses are passed on to consumers.

We are so grateful to our amazing partners across the State, which help to alleviate some of the burden of accessing affordable, nutritious and culturally appropriate food.

Thanks to our partnership with Southern Ports, and it’s very generous $25,000 of funding allocated to help fight hunger in the Great Southern, Southwest and Goldfields-Esperance regions, vulnerable communities received 655 hampers, which is equal to 10,480 meals.

This cost-of-living crisis is decimating family budgets, those living regionally have been hit hard. We are so pleased that Southern Ports’ ongoing commitment will continue to support our vulnerable communities across southern WA. The positive impact of the first year of the partnership was incredible and it is vitally important that we continue to assist communities where we can. Together we are making a lasting difference” said Kate O’Hara Foodbank WA CEO.

Last year 371,000 Western Australian households experienced food insecurity, with many skipping meals or going whole days without food. This includes over 120,000 children who experience hunger on a daily basis.

Looking forward, our Bunbury and Albany branches will continue to provide hampers to the South West and Great Southern regions, and we will partner with Esperance Care Services to provide hampers further south into the Goldfields-Esperance region and surrounds.

We couldn’t do what we do without our valuable partners. Thank you, Southern Ports.