Park for a Purpose driving change in WA

Across Western Australia, the demand for food relief continues to rise, with thousands of families going without meals and more people than ever seeking support.

Increasingly, this includes individuals and families living in cars, caravans, or temporary accommodation – many of whom are unable to access traditional food relief services.

In response, Foodbank WA is focused on meeting people where they are, with Mobile Foodbanks playing a critical role in delivering essential food directly to those who need it most.

To help expand this vital service, Foodbank is launching Park for a Purpose, a new fundraising experience with a clear goal: to fund another Mobile Foodbank.

Designed to bring together Western Australia’s leaders, decision-makers and community advocates, the event offers a unique opportunity to better understand the realities of food insecurity while taking meaningful, collective action.

Taking place on Thursday, 10 September at Foodbank WA’s Perth Airport, participants will come together for an overnight, purpose-led experience. Through curated conversations, guided reflection and shared learnings, attendees will gain a deeper and more informed perspective on the challenges facing many Western Australians today. The experience is carefully designed to be respectful and grounded in impact – it is not about simulating hardship, but about building understanding, encouraging leadership, and inspiring action.

Every dollar raised through Park for a Purpose will support the purchase and operation of a new Mobile Foodbank vehicle, helping extend Foodbank WA’s reach into communities where support is needed most. This means reaching more people, sooner; supporting those who cannot access fixed food relief sites; and helping to prevent hardship from escalating into crisis.

To mark the launch, an early bird incentive is being offered to encourage participation. Those who register on or before 15 July will go into the draw to win an Alfa Romeo for the weekend and two nights’ accommodation at Quest Kings Park, generously provided by event partners. The winner will be drawn at the event.

Reflecting on the purpose behind the initiative, Ian Wee from Perth Integrated Events Team shared, “This event is about leadership, understanding and taking meaningful action. It is often said that we see our lives go by as we drive. We miss details, we forgo the scenery, we forget the pause and what matters. This 10 September, let’s change the notion by Parking for a Purpose – reconnecting and building the relevance and connections that matter.”

The event, proudly delivered in partnership with Perth Airport as the major partner, and presenting partners Brain & Cognitive Function Clinic and Perth Integrated Events Team, promises a meaningful program focused on connection, reflection and impact. A $500 registration fee covers the cost of participation, while all additional fundraising contributions will go directly towards funding the new Mobile Foodbank.

With places strictly limited to 100 vehicles, this is an opportunity to be part of an experience that not only builds connection and understanding, but also drives real, tangible change. Those ready to step into the challenge and help put another Mobile Foodbank on the road can register now.

By coming together for one night with a shared purpose, participants will help create lasting impact for communities across Western Australia.