Funding boost targets Geelong food relief

A share of a $1.1 million state funding boost for regional food relief will flow to Geelong, supporting the work of Geelong Foodshare as demand continues to rise.

The funding will be delivered through the Regional Food Security Alliance, a network of food relief organisations that includes Geelong alongside centres in Bendigo, Shepparton, Mildura, Warrnambool, Wodonga and Moira Shire.

It forms part of a broader $2.7 million emergency food relief package, aimed at helping families facing mounting cost-of-living pressures.

Premier Jacinta Allan said while the funding package would not solve every issue, it would provide immediate relief where it was needed most.

“No family should ever have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” she said.

“This funding is going straight to the frontline, right now.”

In Geelong, the support will bolster Geelong Foodshare, which has been operating in the community for almost 35 years.

The organisation distributes food through a network of more than 65 agencies across the Greater Geelong and Surf Coast region, reaching people through established access points such as Feed Me Bellarine and The Outpost, as well as newer initiatives like Pass the Snacks.

Its reach has continued to expand, with a second site opening on Mercer Street last month. The expansion, made possible by an anonymous donor, is expected to strengthen its ability to meet growing demand for its service.

Lara MP Ella George said the extra funding would help make sure no family goes without food and essential grocery items.

“Geelong Foodshare do an incredible job supporting families, and over 70 organisations across the Geelong region, by providing free and nutritious food to support local residents when they need some extra help,” she said.

“The increasing cost of living is hurting families in Geelong’s north – and funding food relief organisations, like Geelong Foodshare, is how the state government can provide practical support that really makes a difference.”