REGIONAL Foodbank Mount Gambier has secured its long-term future following an outpouring of support from the community.
In a major milestone for the hunger-fighting organisation, it has now raised more than $400,000 to purchase its currently leased warehouse on Cave Road.
The funds will also facilitate necessary building improvements at its Mount Gambier headquarters.
A culmination of 18 months of fundraising efforts, generous donations have flowed from the business sector and the community, along with local and federal government support.
Many community members and business representatives who donated funds were thanked during a recent gathering at the site.
Foodbank branch manager Lynne Neshoda and general manager and founder Leigh Royans delivered a heartfelt thanks to the project’s benefactors.
“This is a significant milestone in the Limestone Coast Foodbank’s rich 15-year trading history, as it will secure a permanent and suitable home for Foodbank services in the region,” Mr Royans said.
“This will ensure the 70 charities, community groups and 24 schools that rely on it will have security of support decades into the future.”
Mount Gambier Foodbank has made major significant inroads into alleviating hunger across the region with a staggering 330,000 meals delivered across the Limestone Coast last financial year.
This included 61 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables gifted free to school breakfast programs and families experiencing hardship.
In the past two years Mount Gambier Foodbank experienced significant growth, mirroring similar demand witnessed across the state.
Ms Neshoda described the regional community as “wonderful and generous”.
“I am amazed at the response for so many great causes and grateful to all donors and sponsors who give so freely to our Foodbank, whether it be gifting of their time, goods, skills or funds,” she said.
“We are truly thankful. We acknowledge and thank the following major financial donors to the property acquisition fund.”
With the festive season approaching, the food charity is gearing up for record demand this Christmas.
“The lead into Christmas is our peak demand for food support, so the local branch will run food drives with business partners in order to source additional necessary staples for struggling families,” Ms Neshoda said.
The charity is seeking donated food and funds for Christmas hampers.
