Pharmacy renews commitment to help tackle hunger

COMMUNITY-OWNED Bendigo UFS Pharmacies has amplified its ongoing support of Bendigo Foodshare with a new three-year sponsorship contribution amounting to $150,000.

The freshly penned arrangement will focus on Foodshare’s Grow Cook Share program, which works with local producers, young people and multicultural communities, to grow, cook, share and sell food.

Bendigo UFS CEO Nicole Cox said the new offering reflects her organisation’s longstanding commitment to support initiatives that strengthen the health and wellbeing of the local community.

“At Bendigo UFS, community is at the centre of everything we do – as a member-owned organisation, our ability to give back is directly driven by the support of our members and customers,” she said.

“Partnerships like this allow us to invest in programs that create meaningful, long-term impact across our region.

“Access to fresh food, connection, education and community support all play an important role in overall wellbeing, and Bendigo Foodshare continues to make a significant difference in these areas.”

Bendigo Foodshare CEO Michelle Murphy said to have the partnership extended for another three years will make a meaningful difference.

“This funding supports the operation of Golden Gums Farm in Strathfieldsaye, helping us produce more fresh, healthy food for our community,” she said.

“This significant contribution from Bendigo UFS allows us to employ a part-time farm coordinator to oversee our market garden operation.”

Since 2005, Bendigo UFS has invested more than $800,000 into local organisations and initiatives that are dedicated to enhancing community health, wellbeing and social connection across the region.