Helping to ease food insecurity
Volunteers at the Deane Street Food Pantry, Central Coast, NSW.
Sanitarium is helping to ease food insecurity in Australia by providing millions of food items for those in need.
The 2023 Foodbank Hunger Report revealed that an estimated 3.7 million Australian households had experienced food insecurity in the previous year with 77 per cent of those affected facing hunger for the first time.
“The report highlights just how many households are experiencing food insecurity for the very first time, and how reluctant people are to ask for help, despite how urgently they need food relief,” said Foodbank Australia CEO Brianna Casey.
“It’s clear the cost-of-living crisis is exacerbating the challenges facing those in vulnerable circumstances and forcing people to make compromises on what and when they are eating.”
With more Australians struggling to put meals on the table, food relief organisations, community food pantries, churches and shelters are playing an increasingly vital role in supporting those in need. This demand is only expected to rise, with the full impact set to be revealed in Foodbank’s 2024 Hunger Report.
Sanitarium has been working alongside food relief efforts to help combat food insecurity through various programs. Its Community Care Program supports 19 local and interstate food pantries, helping ease cost-of-living pressures for struggling Australians. In the 2023/2024 financial year, nearly 3.2 million serves of Sanitarium products were distributed through local food pantries.
Food Pantries Making a Difference
Deane Street Food Pantry, Central Coast, NSW
Each week, 12-15 volunteers run a drive-through food distribution service, making it easier for families facing food insecurity to receive supplies. “This makes it so easy for our clients to receive their food. Drive-through minimises the lifting and carrying of boxes and helps to keep things moving for the 40-45 families we serve every week,” said volunteer team leader Merrilee Sleigh.
Soul Plus Food, Ballarat, Victoria
With a donation of 18,480 serves from Sanitarium, this vibrant community hub supports over 1500 people every month. Every Thursday, 40 volunteers ensure shelves are stocked with essentials, including Weet-Bix and Sanitarium So Good. “Words can’t express our gratitude,” said volunteer Veronica Tirchett.
Caringbah Food Pantry, Southern Sydney, NSW
This pantry offers a dignified shopping experience, allowing clients to select items that best meet their needs. A $7 donation provides staple items, while fresh produce and essentials like Weet-Bix and So Good are available for free. “It’s lovely to see clients thriving,” said team leader Ruth Gibbs.
Community Church at the Bay, Bonnells Bay, NSW
Serving around 50 families each week, this pantry provides not just food but also additional support, such as helping clients find stability and employment. Church pastor Sau Finau explained, “We’re here to provide a hand up, not a handout, and create a culture of connection.”
Sanitarium Health Food Company is owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.