Silent crisis: Foodbank supporting 50 per cent more people now than before COVID hit

As the cost of living continues to skyrocket, Foodbank Queensland has revealed more than half of the state’s food relief charities are struggling to feed the vulnerable and families in need, calling it a silent crisis.

Already providing additional emergency food supplies to 67 food relief charities this year, Foodbank Queensland is supporting a staggering 50 per cent more people on a weekly basis than before the pandemic.

That’s why the organisation is asking Moreton Bay residents to dig deep and assist with its annual Hunger Drive campaign, which runs from now until the end of the month.

During September, a long-term donor of Foodbank Queensland will be matching all donations made to the Hunger Drive. That means every dollar donated will generate four meals to help fight hunger and provide much needed food relief to charities and families who need it most.

Foodbank Queensland chief executive Sara Harrup said with thousands of Queensland children and adults going hungry each year, the most vulnerable are often those who walk past you every day.

“Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate and affects Queenslanders of all ages, backgrounds, living situations, employment status and location,” she said.

“In the face of rising costs of living, we’re seeing a spike in demand for our vital food relief services, as more Queenslanders turn to Foodbank’s Member Charities to help put food on the table.

“Very often it can be your neighbour or friend who is struggling and too embarrassed or ashamed to speak out and ask for help.

“With more than 13 per cent of Australia’s population living below the poverty line, and food relief organisations across the state facing difficulties in meeting growing demand, it’s critical the community bands together to provide as much as we can to support those in need.”

How you can help

Queenslanders can get involved with the Hunger Drive throughout September by setting a fundraising challenge at home, schools and workplaces.

This can include donating your monthly coffee fund, giving up your favourite food or committing to a fitness goal.

Due to Foodbank working with directly with a number of retail supporters, Foodbank can buy essential items at a heavily discounted price, which is why you can’t donate food yourself.

100 per cent of all money raised will be spent on sourcing and transporting essential food across the state to those who need it the most.

For more information or to get involved, visit www.hungerdrive.org.au

How Foodbank fights hunger

Foodbank in Queensland is the largest state hunger relief charity, supporting thousands of families and school children each week via food delivery to charities and schools.

Foodbank source and rescue more than 14 million kilograms of food each year, which is enough to provide 25 million meals.

They also support 48,000 Queenslanders per week in partnership with more than 300 food relief charities.

They also feed 33,000 children on a weekly basis by providing food to 300 School Breakfast Programs.