Winch foodbank seeks donations

THE Winchelsea Community Foodbank is seeking donations to continue supporting those battling food and economic insecurity.

The community volunteer program has already helped hundreds of vulnerable locals within its first two months of operation, however is need of additional support to meet demand.

It operates out of Hesse Rural Health Centre in Winchelsea on Fridays.

The team would greatly appreciate any donations, but is preferably seeking:

Long life milk

Instant coffee

Sauces, seasoning, cooking supplies.

Shampoo and conditioner

Soap and deodorant

Toothbrushes and toothpaste

Tissues and toilet paper

Feminine hygiene products

Laundry powder and dishwashing liquid

Pasta sauce

Spare egg cartons

Unwanted shopping bags, and

Tinned beans, veggies and fruits.

Foodbank volunteer Hannah Walker said the need for food relief was constantly on the rise in Winchelsea.

“We have about 45 people coming through to get food every Friday, which equates to us feeding about 90 people a week. That’s about 300kg going out into the community.

“That number has gone up every week since we’ve started, however has stablished somewhat.

“It’s not the people you would expect to typically need food relief, it’s no longer your low socioeconomic groups, its everyone for various reason.

“We welcome any donations; it goes a long way.”

Ms Walker said the community’s buy in and support had been key to its success over the past two months.

“This project wouldn’t have gotten off the ground without the generosity of our community who have been donating or volunteering.

“We also have two philanthropic organisations backing the project – The Give Where You Live Foundation and Geelong Community Foundation.

“Without grants from these bodies and our generous locals, we can’t do what we do. We are incredibly appreciative.”

Donations can be dropped at 30-32 Hesse Street Winchelsea every Friday between 9am and 10am and 12 noon and 2pm or to Hesse Community Health Centre by prior arrangement.

New volunteers are always welcome at the foodbank.

For more information, email [email protected] or phone 0412 848 292