Vulnerable residents in Braybrook and Sunshine will continue to have unobstructed access to healthy food, with the Duke Street Community House receiving more than $40,000 for its essential relief program.
The local support centre is a recipient of the state government’s Community Food Relief grants program, which was developed in response to the rising demand for assistance amid cost-of-living pressures experienced by individuals and families.
Within Sunshine and surrounds, where the need for relief is “so great” according to the community house manager Emma Price, the grant of $40,188 is crucial in keeping the four-year old food service running for another 12 months.
“This funding is a welcome relief,” she said. “Last year was really tough because we didn’t receive any government funding, and it meant it was a massive financial burden for our organisation.
“We can now, with this grant, run the service through the entirety of 2025 which means we will be able to help close to 400 registered users.”
The additional capital for the centre’s market-style food relief program will cover a range of costs including staff expenses, food purchasing and transport, volunteer and program management expenses, and will allow for the purchase of a new fridge.
Ms Price said people who access the service are able to get nearly a full week’s worth of groceries.
“It allows us to give locals fresh produce, pantry items and meals that they can then use to feed their families,” she said.
“We will still need to fund raise throughout the year to meet the shortfall as the program costs us close to $50,000 and so we do ask for a small donation from families who can afford it.
“It’ll help us with our week-to-week costs.”
Prealene Khera
