Food Share celebrates first birthday

VOLUNTEERS and supporters gathered on Wednesday, April 30 to celebrate the first birthday of Murrindindi Community Food Share.

When they opened their doors just 12 months ago, they had a simple but powerful vision, to support the community’s health and wellbeing by addressing food insecurity in Murrindindi Shire.

Foodbank Victoria reports that 37 per cent of people living in regional Victoria experience food insecurity, more than in metropolitan Melbourne.

Foundation Murrindindi Executive Officer Robyn Hill said, “Over the past year, our monthly food share events have grown from an initial distribution at our first event last May of 217kg of food, to our most recent event in April where we provided 1019kg of food in just three hours.

“In total, we’ve distributed over 9000kg of food, welcomed over 950 people, from 15 different locations, hosted two events with free haircuts by Spencer the Salon and several more where the Rotary Club of Alexandra warmed bellies with delicious soup and a roll. These additional activities boost self-esteem, increase conversation and engagement and grow personal connections.

“During this process we have built something far greater than just a food share. We’ve nurtured a community of kindness, dignity, and connection.

“This hasn’t happened by chance. It’s happened because of the incredible commitment of our partner organisations (such as Reddrops FoodWorks, Menzies Support Services and Yea Community House), our generous donors, including the amazing monthly delivery of potatoes from Dobsons, and local community groups who collect and deliver food to us, those who provide small and large financial contributions that keep us going and the many individuals who share our…

Image: Organisers, volunteers and supporters celebrating the one year anniversary of the Murrindindi Community Food Share, located in Alexandra.