Grants to help food relief groups

THE state government is helping food relief organisations meet the increased demand for their services with its $5 million Community Food Relief Fund.

The fund will provide food relief organisations with one-off grants of up to $75,000 to increase the state’s capacity to source and distribute food relief during COVID-19.

Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan said it was a particularly crucial time to support these organisations.

“Every Victorian deserves access to fresh and healthy food – which is why we’re boosting resources for community-based food relief services,” Mr Donnellan said.

“We’re making sure the food relief system supports Victorians when and where they need it, in a COVID safe way.”

The funding will be used for a range of causes such as purchasing vans or refrigerators, managing or updating software, developing delivery models, supporting COVID-safe practices, and attracting new volunteers.

Minister for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman said the fund was crucial to helping those most at risk.

“This funding means food relief will reach the members of our community in need,” Mr Cheeseman said.

“This investment will make a real difference for people in Geelong and the Surf Coast struggling to put food on the table.”

For more information or to apply for one of the grants head to dhhs.vic.gov.au/community-inclusion-and-food-relief-coronavirus-covid-19.

Applications will close at 2pm on Monday, October 26.