Woolworths stores are partnering with local communities this holiday season to aim towards raising $3.5 million for the OzHarvest Christmas Appeal.
The equivalent of seven million meals, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay Woolworths customers are encouraged to contribute to the appeal by rounding up their shopping bill to the nearest dollar while in store or by adding a 50 cent token to their basket between now and Christmas Day.
This year’s appeal follows on from recent reports showing more than half of food insecure households had someone in paid work, while in a typical month 276,000 households in Victoria receive assistance from food relief organisations.
OzHarvest delivers fresh and nutritious food to more than 1800 charities which help feed people who are affected by food insecurity.
Woolworths community and sponsorships head Sarah De La Mare said this year will mark the 10th anniversary of its partnership with OzHarvest.
“We know many Australians will do it tough this festive season after what has been another challenging year, and we are committed to helping feed those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay who are in need through our long term partnership with OzHarvest,” she said.
“This Christmas, a little change will go a long way as together we aim to help provide the equivalent of 7 million meals to local communities in need across the country.”
OzHarvest founder and chief executive Ronni Khan said seeing the extent of food relief need is “heart-breaking”.
“There are so many new people that need our help and the charities we support say over a third of their clients are seeking food relief for the first time, families with children are hit the hardest,” she said.
Details: www.woolworths.com.au/shop/discover/community/ozharvest
