You helped families put food on the table this winter

Local mum of three, Cheryl*, has been no stranger to struggle, sacrifice and making impossible choices. Every day her family – kids included – were skipping meals. They were going hungry. And so were thousands of other families. Until you helped deliver essential food packs.

Heading into winter, Cheryl shared her story with you in the hopes you would help feed hungry families like hers.

With your kindness, that goal wasn’t just reached. It was exceeded!

Together you and the incredible Foodbank community came together to deliver essential food packs to families doing it tough across NSW and the ACT.

Thank you for supporting your neighbours facing hunger. For bringing comfort, relief, and dignity to people like Cheryl when they need it most.

Cheryl FHNL

Each essential food pack provided to a family in need was filled with food essentials, fresh fruit and veg, protein-rich foods and the love of people like you.

Bonnyrigg High School

Nourishing minds and building community through their breakfast program

For Bonnyrigg High School, located in southwest Sydney, breakfast is more than just a meal. It’s a symbol of care, compassion and community.

With over 1,600 students, 98% of whom come from non-English speaking backgrounds, Bonnyrigg is a vibrant and diverse school. But with that, diversity also comes the challenge of ensuring equity and that every student has what they need to succeed.

For many, that begins with something as simple as a healthy breakfast.

The turning point came when Bonnyrigg High partnered with Foodbank NSW & ACT to deliver a School Breakfast 4 Health program. This support enabled the school to significantly grow what it could offer kids. Their breakfast club includes cereal, fresh fruit, toasties, tinned goods and milk.

It’s not just about food, it’s about creating a warm, welcoming space where students can start their day feeling supported.”

And it’s working. The school has seen real, measurable changes: improved focus, better engagement in morning classes and a noticeable lift in punctuality. For many students, the breakfast club has become a place they look forward to; a calm and inclusive start to their day.

Staffed by a team of Student Learning Support Officers (SLSOs), parent volunteers, and even students themselves, the breakfast club is a team effort. The presence of familiar faces helps break down barriers and encourages consistent participation.

The timing couldn’t be more important. As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, schools like Bonnyrigg are seeing more families struggle with basic expenses. The signs are often subtle; a student without lunch, rising absenteeism, or disengagement in class.

That’s where the Breakfast Club quietly steps in.

“Some students come in for a toastie and a smile and that might be the most stable part of their morning. We’ve had parents express deep gratitude. For them, it’s one less worry.”

The school has set an ambitious goal to improve attendance by 47% by 2027, and the breakfast club is already proving to be a powerful driver in helping students arrive on time and ready to learn.

What truly stands out, however, is not just what the program offers, but what it has come to represent. It has become a place where friendships grow over simple morning routines, where quieter students gain confidence, and where a stronger sense of belonging is felt throughout the school community.

Over time, the breakfast club has woven itself into the fabric of school life, becoming an essential part of who the community is today.

Bonnyrigg High School’s story is a powerful reminder that small acts such as a piece of fruit or a warm toastie, can have a big impact.

Ben Stewart, the P&C President at Bonnyrigg High School shares his heartfelt thanks to all the generous donors whose support helps Foodbank NSW & ACT provide food to schools every day.

” Your generosity is creating real change, you’re not just feeding students, you’re uplifting families, relieving pressure and building stronger school communities. “

Ben Stewart

P&C President, Bonnyrigg High School

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

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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.

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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

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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.

Local Kiosk

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:

Make a donation

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This Christmas, a donation can help provide pantry essentials, fresh produce, and nourishing meals for families, ensuring they don’t go hungry during the holiday season. Help us continue the giving season and give hope to families doing it tough in the lead-up to Christmas. Donate today: foodbankna.org/DonateNow

Hold a food drive

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In the lead up to Christmas, host a food drive to make a tangible difference by helping us fill the gap of essential supplies needed to feed families across NSW & the ACT.

Food drives are for everyone, whether you’re an individual, family, school, workplace, or community group. We rely on food drives to help fill gaps we have in essential staples – the items that people need most this Christmas.

Items needed:
– Bottled water
– UHT milk
– Cereal
– Pasta & pasta sauce
– Tinned food & meals with ring pulls
– Soap, shampoo, conditioner & bodywash
– Deodorant, sanitary items & personal care
– Baby formula
– Pet food

Make your recycling go further with Return & Earn

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We’re teaming up with Return and Earn to give you the opportunity to turn your recycling into vital food relief. If you’re looking for an easy way to support Aussies doing it tough this Christmas, turn your recycling into meals! Every eligible container donated supports local families going hungry.

Each bottle or can you donate raises 10c to help Foodbank NSW & ACT feed families going hungry. 5 bottles/cans = one meal.

Find your nearest machine on the Return and Earn app, or at: returnandearn.org.au

Visit a Giving Machine to donate meals to families

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This Christmas, use a Giving Machine in Sydney or Canberra to turn your generosity into meals, clothing, and essentials for those in need. 100% of your donation goes directly to charities like Foodbank NSW & ACT, helping fight hunger and bring hope to Aussie families.

If you know someone who is struggling, tell them we’re here

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We know that the festive season is a challenging time for many people in our communities. If you or someone you know needs food support, visit: www.foodbank.org.au/find-food to connect with a Foodbank community partner in your area.

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

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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.

For more information visit

Ruse Public School

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.

Learn more about our School Breakfast 4 Health Program

1 in 3 households in NSW & ACT are still going hungry

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The latest Foodbank Hunger Report highlights what we have been seeing firsthand: hunger is hitting the community at higher rates than we can keep up with.

One in three households across our state and territory are still struggling to put food on the table, and more people than ever are accessing food support for the first time.

Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate, it can affect any of us at any time, and it impacts people who have never been impacted before.

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Almost a third or mortgage holders, and close to half of renters are struggling to put food on the table amidst the cost-of-living crisis. These households are trying to navigate the pressures of rising living costs by cutting back on essential items or relying on credit.

The sad reality is that there is enough food in Australia to feed everyone.

Yet more and more people are going without, and we’re experiencing unprecedented demand for our services.

Single-parent households are the hardest hit, with over two-thirds facing food insecurity and 41% experiencing the severest form, regularly skipping meals or going entire days without food.

We see kids turning up to schools hungry, without food, or with the little food their parents sacrificed of their own.

We are concerned about the lasting impact this will have on our future generations and do everything we can to combat this with our School Breakfast Program.

But as demand for food continues to grow, we’re reminded every day of the stark reality that there is enough food in this country to feed everyone. No family or child should be going hungry.

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.

Donate today to help us fight hunger in our communities.

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit our website visit Find Food now.

Farmers facing tough times, but generosity still grows.

It’s no secret that farmers are facing unprecedented challenges, from rising fuel and fertiliser costs to fluctuating market prices. Over the past six months, food donations from farms have sharply declined as many farmers are forced to shift away from food crops, opting instead for more profitable alternatives or, in some cases, stepping away from farming altogether.

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Our Produce Manager, who works closely with farmers and oversees the logistics of fresh produce donations, has seen firsthand the impacts of these challenges:

There has been a huge reduction in donations. Fertilizer and fuel prices have skyrocketed, while the market value for products has stayed the same for years, making it hard for farmers to continue as they used to.”

– Ricky, Produce Manager at Foodbank NSW & ACT

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Amidst these difficulties, we are incredibly grateful for the generosity of those who continue to support us. A shining example is Rombola Family Farms, who have donated over 41,000 kgs of broccoli in the past three months alone. This donation came at a time when the cold winter months had limited our supply and the market prices for broccoli were soaring—making fresh vegetables even harder to access for families in need.

Fresh fruit and vegetables are vital not just for physical health but also for mental wellbeing. When fresh produce becomes inaccessible, it’s easier for struggling families to turn to cheaper, less nutritious foods. But thanks to donations like these, we’re able to provide healthy options for families and children who need them most.”

– Ricky, Produce Manager at Foodbank NSW & ACT

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we’re working hard to explore new ways to secure produce—whether it’s from farmers, universities, or other greenhouses—so that we can continue to provide fresh food to those who rely on us. Thanks to the support of our partners and donors, we can continue our mission to fight hunger, even in the toughest of times.

Want to help us keep fresh food on the table for families in need?

Support us today!

Celebrating our Volunteers of the Year

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation, bringing a wealth of life experiences and a shared commitment to our mission.

We have a diverse group of volunteers, from recently retired and re-entering the workforce to university students. Their shared dedication plays a crucial role in our ability to provide over 20 million meals to communities across NSW and the ACT.

Celebrating our Foodbank NSW & ACT volunteers

Our volunteers’ dedication and hard work provide more than just meals to families doing it tough. We know that financial hardships and hunger often also come with social stigma, physical and mental health challenges and can impact our community’s ability to face other challenges in life.

Every day, we receive countless messages from families we have supported, thanking our incredible team of volunteers and expressing their gratitude for the simple fact that they care enough to do what they do.

Our Volunteers of the Year

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.

According to The Centre for Volunteering, the Awards program has grown to become one of the largest celebrations of volunteering in Australia. Last year, more than 133,000 nominees from over 500 organisations were recognised at Regional and State Ceremonies.

We have nominated Antoine, Jane and Marina as our Foodbank NSW & ACT Volunteers of the Year.

Jane and Antoine Mapoon

Married couple, Jane and Antoine Mapoon, have been volunteering with Foodbank NSW & ACT since 2014. They have seen our organisation grow through warehouse site moves, natural disasters and updates to our technology and processes. Their dedication and ongoing support have made them invaluable members of our team.

Antoine works in our warehouse, picking orders and welcoming and training new volunteers. His calm and caring approach helps new volunteers feel comfortable and quickly become part of our team.”

– Volunteer Engagement Team

Jane specialises in sorting single-item donations, ensuring they are safe for distribution. Her meticulous work and training of new volunteers in her section ensure our operations run smoothly and efficiently.”

– Volunteer Engagement Team

Marina Juan

Marina joined our volunteer team last year, bringing boundless enthusiasm. She supports our warehouse three days a week, picking orders for shipment to our community partners across NSW & the ACT.

Marina’s welcoming nature and encouragement of friends to volunteer make her a perfect ambassador for Foodbank NSW & ACT. She has represented us at recognition events and played an active role in National Volunteer Week 2024.”

– Volunteer Engagement Team

The dedication of volunteers like Antoine, Jane and Marina is a testament to the positive impact our volunteers have on the community. Their commitment and hard work not only help us feed those in need but also help foster a supportive and inclusive environment for our new volunteers.

Volunteer with us

Are you inspired by the stories of Jane, Antoine, and Marina? You can join our team of dedicated, regular volunteers at Foodbank NSW & ACT and make a difference in your community. Your efforts will contribute to providing meals to those in need and help us continue our mission to fight hunger.

Join the fight against hunger

You helped families put food on the table this winter

Each essential food pack provided to a family in need was filled with food essentials, fresh fruit and veg, protein-rich foods and the love of people like you.

Bonnyrigg High School

Nourishing minds and building community through their breakfast program

Nourishing minds and building community through their breakfast program

For many, that begins with something as simple as a healthy breakfast.

Bonnyrigg High School’s story is a powerful reminder that small acts such as a piece of fruit or a warm toastie, can have a big impact.

Ben Stewart

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