Celebrating the animals who bring us joy – and the people who care for them

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, our mission is simple: we are here to make sure that no one goes without food. Every day, we work tirelessly to provide essential support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. But over the years, we’ve noticed something heartbreaking. 

Many of those who struggle to put food on their own tables continue to put the needs of their pets first. 

Ensuring their furry companions are fed before themselves. It’s a beautiful testament to the bond between humans and animals, but the reality is, no one should have to go without food to ensure their pets can eat. 

That’s why we choose to support organisations like the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC), who work tirelessly to care for animals in need. 

Located in Glendenning, BARC provides shelter to 135 dogs and 230 cats from several Sydney councils, covering a wide geographic area. It’s a vital part of the community, not only offering a safe space for rescued animals but also serving as a place where people can visit and adopt pets. The team at BARC is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals, and their efforts make a real difference in the lives of both the animals and the people who adopt them. 

Over the years, our relationship with BARC has grown, and, we’ve been able to donate a variety of essential supplies to help support their mission.  

From cat food and dog food to dog dental chews, shampoos, and worming tablets, we ensure that these rescued animals have everything they need to thrive while waiting for their forever homes. We’ve even donated cat towers and toys to keep them active and happy. 

In just the past few months alone, our donations have totalled over 5,000 kgs of food and supplies for the animals in their care.  

It’s incredible to see how these contributions have made a tangible impact, ensuring that BARC can continue to provide the highest level of care for their animals. 

Today, on National Pet Day, we want to take a moment to celebrate not just the amazing animals who bring joy to our lives, but also the incredible people in our community who make sure these animals are well cared for.  

Whether it’s the volunteers at BARC, our incredible suppliers and donors who donate pet supplies, or the generous supporters like you, we’re all part of a larger effort to ensure that our furry friends receive the love and care they deserve. 

We’re proud to stand alongside organisations like BARC to ensure that both people and their pets don’t go without. On this special day, let’s continue to raise awareness about the importance of looking after both people and pets.

Checkout our visit to BARC here!

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The 8-year-old making a difference one bottle at a time

At just eight years old, Owen is proving that small actions can create a huge impact. Armed with his trusty buggy, Owen zips around his neighbourhood collecting bottles and cans for a cause close to his heart. Every cent he earns from recycling at his local Return and Earn machine is donated to Foodbank NSW & ACT, helping provide meals for those in need.

His journey started after his mum heard about Foodbank’s School Breakfast for Health program and how kids were going to school hungry. This led Owen to think: How can I help? Inspired by the power of recycling and the difference it could make, Owen began his mission to turn discarded drink containers into meals for people doing it tough. Over the months, what started as a small act of kindness has become a routine that showcases the power of giving back.

Return and Earn makes recycling easy and rewarding, and their partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT has amplified its impact. With every container recycled and donated, funds go directly toward providing meals for struggling families. To date, this initiative has raised an incredible $200,000, equivalent to 400,000 meals, proving that small actions can lead to big change.

Owen’s story proves that one person’s effort really can make a difference. Whether you’re a seasoned recycler or just getting started, you can join the movement this April!

Locate your nearest Return and Earn kiosk, deposit eligible containers and choose to donate your earnings to Foodbank NSW & ACT—it’s that simple.

Get involved today.

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At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we know that Christmas can be a tough time for many Australians, particularly those in our communities struggling to put a meal on the table or trying to fill hungry bellies during school holidays.

We are here to provide food for anyone who needs it, this Christmas and beyond!

The need for support is greater than ever. Foodbank NSW & ACT is working tirelessly to ensure that no one goes hungry this Christmas, but we can’t do it alone.

We rely on the generosity of our community to help us provide essential food and supplies to those in need. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference.

Here’s 5 ways you can support people doing it tough this Christmas:

Turn your recycling into meals thanks to Foodbank’s partnership
with Return and Earn

Foodbank NSW & ACT has partnered with Return and Earn to raise $250,000 to help fund half a million meals for families in need this summer. The six-month recycling appeal was launched in November and is already proving to be a hit with community.   

Foodbank NSW & ACT is the state and territory’s largest and most trusted food relief organisation, providing much needed food assistance to individuals and families across NSW and the ACT. 

At Foodbank, we believe everyone should have access to the food they need, and we are here for everyday Australians who are going without. We currently provide more than 26 million meals each year for those in urgent need,”

– said John Robertson, Foodbank NSW & ACT’s CEO 

This year’s Foodbank Hunger Report reveals food insecurity in Australia has reached a critical point, with one in three NSW households facing hunger. This equates to one million households facing food-insecurity in NSW alone, with 75 per cent of households saying cost of living is the primary cause.  

Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate, it can affect any of us at any time, and its continuing to impact people that have never been impacted before. Our crucial mission is to make food available to those who need it most, but we can’t do it without the support of our communities and partners,”

– Mr. Robertson said. 

From now until 21 April 2025, every eligible bottle and can donated to the Foodbank NSW & ACT appeal at a Return and Earn machine or on the Return and Earn app at participating return points, will raise 10c toward the $250,000 goal to support Foodbank’s vital work. 

Thank you to Return and Earn and to the people of NSW for supporting the Foodbank appeal this summer and our mission to end hunger,”

– said Mr. Roberston. 

The most important meal of the day: Ruse Public School’s transformational breakfast program

 More children are being forced to skip meals and go hungry in Australia, with 1 in 5 children have gone hungry and for some, it’s a monthly or weekly occurrence. 

Foodbank NSW & ACT’s School Breakfast 4 Health Program fosters community spirit, with parents, local businesses, and even students stepping in to help. Children learn valuable life skills like washing dishes and serving meals, while volunteers create a sense of belonging for all.

From Ruse Public School, Simone Chomicz, a devoted mum, grandmother, and school staff member, has spearheaded an inspiring initiative to address child hunger and support learning. Simone understands the crucial connection between proper nutrition and a child’s ability to thrive in the classroom. 

The school’s breakfast club ebegan in April 2024, after Simone noticed children eating their lunches early in the morning. She saw firsthand how rushed mornings and tight budgets left many students without a proper start to their day. With the support of the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C), school staff, and volunteers, the program now serves breakfast three mornings a week, offering a welcoming environment where students can enjoy a nutritious meal and engage with peers.

Starting the program wasn’t without hurdles. Efforts to secure donations from businesses were met with limited success. Simone’s perseverance led her to Foodbank NSW & ACT School Breakfast 4 Health Program. Through Foodbank’s Program, the breakfast club receives fresh fruits, multigrain bread, and pantry staples that ensure students have access to healthy options. 

This program is not possible without their generosity. Our children are our future, and they need love, support, and a nutritious breakfast to start their day.”

 

– Simone expressed deep gratitude for the role Foodbank NSW & ACT’s play.

The impact of the School Breakfast 4 Health Program goes beyond physical nourishment. Teachers report that students are calmer, more focused, and excited to learn. One standout story is of a young girl in the school’s support unit. Initially shy, she found confidence and joy by volunteering at the club, even inspiring her mother to join. 

The change in her is just mind-blowing,”

 

– Simone shared.

The program represents true community spirit, with parents, local businesses, and even students stepping in to help. Children learn valuable life skills like washing dishes and serving meals, while volunteers create a sense of belonging for all. 

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