An April record we wish we hadn’t broken

This Easter, our network experienced a record-breaking surge – breaking a record we wish we hadn’t broken.

The Thursday before Good Friday became the busiest day in our history, with 1,246 customers accessing food support across our services.

For several years now, this day has consistently been our busiest, highlighting a troubling trend that continues to intensify.

Easter is traditionally a time for families and individuals to come together, sharing meals and creating happy memories.

Yet for many in our community, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has made this increasingly difficult.

What should be a season of celebration instead became a time of financial strain and tough choices.

On this single day, a total of 29,156 kilograms of food was distributed across our network to meet the overwhelming demand. At our Perth branch alone, 16 pallets of chicken went out the door. To create a visual of that – the school fruit van, pictured, can transport two pallets of chicken at a time so that would mean we would need to do eight trips to transport 16 pallets. This surge in demand saw remaining stock critically low and in urgent need of replenishment. This Easter surge is part of a broader and deeply concerning pattern. Demand for food relief has been rising steadily throughout February and March, with six days recording more than 1,000 customers seeking support.

Recent interest rate increases by the Reserve Bank of Australia have further stretched household budgets, while rents continue to climb and fuel prices remain unstable at best. For many households, there is simply no longer any financial buffer.

These numbers tell a powerful story – one that highlights the growing pressure facing individuals and families across our community, and the vital importance of ensuring food support remains available for those who need it most.