Food relief never been more important than in 2020

GEELONG Food Relief Centre (GFRC) has been doing great work for 30 years, but has never been needed more than in 2020.

GFRC is a food bank operation which, through its two Geelong-based minimarts and bulk distribution facility, helps provide food to those who need it.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, GFRC chief Collin Peebles said he witnessed an increased need for food relief as the financial strain hits many around the region.

“Unfortunately, the festive season always brings added pressure to the budgets of families throughout our region who may have already been struggling to meet their financial obligations,” Mr Peebles said.

“Unlike previous years, in 2020 family budgets have been significantly impacted by the introduction of COVID-19 to our region, with a rise in unemployment, mortgage stress and the continual increase in the cost of living causing a significant increase in food insecurity.

“With food insecurity throughout G21, Geelong and the Surf Coast, residents should be proud to have a dedicated regional food bank with 30 years of industry experience supporting those in need of emergency food relief.”

“As CEO of one of the largest regional food bank operations in Victoria, it is humbling to witness a charity which provides six times more value to a client than a corporate supermarket thanks to our donors.”

GFRC has more than 90 dedicated volunteers and helps about 38,000 individuals each year, supplying about 900,000 items of emergency food to 45 emergency food providers as well as holding a number of school breakfasts.

Its new Emergency Food Distribution Hub, the first regional food hub for Victoria, is under construction in Geelong. With a $1.7million contribution from the City of Greater Geelong, as well as other external stakeholders, GFRC is set to operate from its new home in April this year.

Geelong Food Relief welcomes food and financial donations. To donate food contact [email protected]. Taxable donations can be made securely via PayPal at geelongfoodrelief.org.

Anyone who requires these services can visit https://geelongfoodrelief.org/need-help