A new drive-through is set to open in Melbourne, Victoria on Sunday, offering food relief for families who are struggling to put a meal on the table.
Foodbank Victoria CEO Dave McNamara said that there has been a 10 per cent increase in the number of families requiring help amid rising interest rates, with demand soaring to a historical high of 76,000 people a day.
“The pressure on households is unrelenting. If anything, it’s becoming more entrenched – and more people are quietly falling behind,” McNamara said.
“We’re seeing people who have never asked for help before.
“People working, raising families, doing everything they can, but still not able to keep up. We’re receiving calls from people every day asking, ‘What do I do? How do I get food to feed my family?’”
McNamara added that the drive-through will make it easier for people to get the help they need.
“No forms, no questions. Just turn up, and we’ll help.”
“This is about the Victorian community being there for each other, showing up when circumstances beyond our control are causing significant pain as they are right now,” he added.
Last year, around 20 per cent of households around the country skipped meals or went days without eating, according to Foodbank’s Hunger Report.
One in five Aussie households admitted to missing meals, and 3.5 million experienced food insecurity in the last year.
The report also found 65 per cent of severely food-insecure households look out for sales and discounts on grocery items, and 62 per cent are cutting back on eating out.
“We don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t ask for food. If you need help right now, we’re here and ready to welcome you,” McNamara said.
Families can pick up a box of food at the charity’s new warehouse in 441–459 Kororoit Creek Road, Altona in Melbourne’s southwest this Sunday between 10am to 2pm.
Image: Foodbank
