Victorian food relief agency Shepparton Foodshare will have a new, purpose-built warehouse operating by next year thanks to a federal and state government partnership.
The permanent base will significantly increase the agency’s capacity and feature loading facilities, an administration office, meeting rooms, storage space, a kitchen and amenities, and parking.
The state government put in $2.9 million with a $600,000 contribution from the federal government.
Shepparton FoodShare chair, Jeremy Rensford, said the organisation was grateful for the backing.
“The demand for our services has never been higher, and this will enable us to reach out and support more people,” Rensford said.
Shepparton Foodshare distributes around 350,000 kilograms of food per year to registered emergency relief agencies, schools, neighbourhood houses, community meals programs, as well as First Nations and faith organisations.
Recipients include individuals, families, children, homeless people, First Nations people and the multicultural community, including new arrivals and refugees.
State Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, said, “Shepparton Foodshare holds a special place in our community’s heart, especially for the invaluable support they provided during the pandemic, ensuring access to vital nutrition when it mattered most.”
Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney, said, the government was spending more than $41 billion in rural and regional areas to improve liveability and support local initiatives.
“FoodShare’s role in providing nutritious meals for people facing hardship is vital,” Tierney said.
More than one third of Australian households experienced food insecurity in 2023, with just over three quarters of them experiencing it for the first time.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King said, “We are showing our support to Shepparton Foodshare, who are helping provide crucial nourishment to those in need.
“I am pleased to see our investments be of value to those living in Shepparton and look forward to hearing more about the great work that is being done for the community.”
