Food for thought

THERE is a growing number of Bellarine residents who struggle more with every lockdown and are doing everything they can just to keep their heads above water.

They are the people Feed Me Bellarine is supporting, and co-founder of the local charity Anthony Woodbury is hoping that by being a finalist in this year’s Westfield Local Hero program, he can secure $10,000 for his community.

“Ten thousand dollars equals 10,000 meals to us, it would help us get through the next six months,” Anthony said.

Becoming one the three finalists to receive $10,000 in the annual Westfield community program would also help the chef upgrade his kitchen to be able to produce more meals, as demand increases across the Bellarine.

The charity has distributed more than 100,000 healthy, chef-prepared meals over the past two years, and helps about 700 families put food on the table every week with the support of more than 100 volunteers.

The charity also runs a supermarket where families can pick up fresh produce and a cafe that serves gourmet meals on a pay-what-you-can basis.

Apart from feeding locals, Anthony has also helped save more than 238,000kg of food from landfill.

“Day by day, it’s getting more hectic,” Anthony said.

“A lot more people who had jobs, don’t have jobs and they are starting to reach out.

“And there’s a lot that haven’t had jobs for a while but they are more aware of us and what they can do.

“The first couple of lockdowns they were going through their savings, now they’re just keeping their heads above water.

“The people we are helping have a home, they just haven’t got cash flow.

“It can be really embarrassing to have to do an interview to get help, that’s why we are different; no questions, no agenda,” he said,

acknowledging the difficulty for people to have to explain their finances when they are struggling.

“If you ask for help, we’ll give you help.”

Anthony said the wider community could also help reduce food waste and support Feed Me Bellarine by shopping at the Wasted Minimarts, which are located in Sinclair Street, Ocean Grove and Clylinders Drive, Torquay, or by making a donation via the FMB website.

The community can also help charities receive $10,000 by voting for Anthony and other local Westfield Local Heroes finalists Andy Brittain, Barb Speldewinde, Bronwyn Haskell, Claire Faulmann and Jennifer Chiu.

Cast your vote for their 2021 Westfield Local Heroes at westfield.com.au/local-heroes before August 30.