Raising awareness one grain of rice at a time

Rice, bench presses and social media. Who knew putting these three together could lead to over 690 kilograms donated to fight hunger?

 

Over the last few months, local Sydneysider, Gunwoo Kim, aka “The Rice Guy”, has captivated the online world with a unique and charitable twist to a trending challenge that has gone viral.

The idea was simple: bench press 1 gram of rice for every follower Gunwoo accumulated. 

 

 

Now with over 100,000 followers later and a staggering 9.5 million views on the top-performing video, Gunwoo is teaming up with local brands, influencers and his community to continue his unique challenge, donating the bench-pressed rice to Foodbank NSW & ACT to support families doing it tough.

 

 

Gunwoo Kim says,

 

I never anticipated the overwhelming response to the rice bench press challenge. Now that it has taken off, I want to use this platform to make a positive impact on the world. I’ve had the pleasure partnering with brands such as The Kimchi Company, Cuckoo Australia and many others keen to jump onboard to help with donating the rice lifted. 

 

Also collaborating with influencers and these brands along side my platform allows us to turn the spotlight onto important social issues, such as hunger. The followers are essentially all part of this journey too as each follower accounts for an extra 1 gram of rice donation. In my perspective, the take-home message is that we all need to do our part.”

 

Gunwoo and two trolleys full of rice

 

 

Gunwoo donating rice to Foodbank NSW & ACT

 

 

Andy Moore, Foodbank NSW & ACT’s Marketing & Fundraising General Manager says,

 

It’s not every day we get to be part of something so uniquely impactful, and we’re grateful to Gunwoo for joining us in the fight against hunger and making a tangible difference to the lives of Australians going hungry every day.

 

Sadly, 1.2 million households experienced food insecurity in the last 12 months which is 37% of all NSW & ACT households and 105,000 more than in 2022 – something we’re absolutely committed to changing. It is through initiatives like this, and the generosity of our communities that we’re able to do something about that. With the support of people like Gunwoo, we’re able to distribute over 65,000 meals every day to Aussies doing it tough.”

 

World’s First Global Rice Bench

 

 

Gunwoo’s recent video saw his rice nation community joining in on the challenge from across the world in the World’s First Global Rice Bench.  

 

 

From across Australia, Mexico, South Korea, Netherlands, the USA and more, his community came together in full force to show their support, raising awareness of the need for food relief, with every gram of rice lifted being matched and then donated to Foodbank NSW & ACT.

 

You can follow Gunwoo’s journey on Instagram @gunwoobench or at ricenation.co. 

Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook for more exciting updates as this unique challenge continues to feed more hungry families doing it tough. 

 

If you or someone you know needs support, please visit our Find Food portal to connect with a Foodbank community partner in your area. 

 

 

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Cooking Classes engage families at Dana Street Primary School

The School Breakfast Clubs Program Cooking Classes team spent four weeks providing two-hour classes focusing on food literacy, cooking and nutrition education at Dana Street Primary School in Ballarat. The cooking classes provided the school community with a setting where families could come together, learn and bond over healthy cooking experiences.

Families are drawn to the Cooking Classes due to their inclusive nature, allowing all members to participate and learn to cook delicious and healthy recipes. Conducting classes within the familiar school environment further encourages participation and strengthens the bond between families.

Students love the Cooking Classes, particularly enjoying the opportunity to prepare their own meals alongside their families and eating vegetables in recipes that they think are delicious. Who can resist broccoli on pizza when you make it yourself?

Parents love the classes too, with the experience being a precious moment to bond with their children in a comfortable environment. The families also enjoy learning to cook and being creative with resources available in their own kitchens.

FBV Dana Street PS cooking class

Nurturing healthy habits within the community

Through hands-on cooking experiences and the provision of free meals and hampers, the program fosters healthier habits and alleviates financial strain for families facing economic challenges. Students also benefit from exposure to new foods, expanding their culinary horizons and promoting nutritious eating habits.

Feedback from families shows a positive response to the food hampers provided, with many using the included recipe cards. The program’s impact extends beyond the classroom, with families replicating the cooking experience at home and sharing their success stories with their community. Passing on healthy habits and encouraging more people to eat more vegetables.

The school’s decision to host Cooking Classes stemmed from the desire to offer families an enriching experience that promotes health and togetherness. The program’s accessibility and safety within the school environment made it an irresistible opportunity for the school community.

Fritters cooking in a frypan

Cooking ingredients on a plate

What difference do the Cooking Classes make to the families?

The Classes not only provide ongoing health benefits, but they can also mean the difference between eating food that night or not. One family attending the classes at Dana Street Primary School has times when they cannot afford to give their children food to take to school. Attending the Cooking Classes meant the family not only got to experience the fun of cooking together, but also take the food hamper home and cook for another night. Knowing they had a healthy meal at no cost was a major benefit for this family.

Testimonials

The cooking program has been amazing, my boys with extra needs have been more open to trying foods because they have helped prepare them. The boys have been asking to cook at home almost every day. Mr 8 even cooked eggs for his dinner after the last cooking class we attended!! It’s been great to do as a family and we will be continuing to cook as a family once a week,” a participating parent shared.

 

This seems to good to be true. From organisation, to preparation and relationships, this program is absolutely amazing! We have been so pleased that our school can be part of this program and that it benefitted so many different families within our school. Between the onsite cooking classes and the food hampers, 24 families have benefited from this program. It is lovely to see the families come together to cook and prepare a healthy meal together. Their teamwork and bonding as a family has also been wonderful to watch throughout this program. This is something that we would most definitely recommend to others,” said Kelly Kosloff, the school contact coordinating the Cooking Classes.

Featuring our Community Partner, Carevan Blacktown

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we work with over 700 organisations located across the state and territory that we call our ‘Community Partners’. They vary from small, grassroots community groups to larger charitable organisations. Our Community Partners order and receive food directly from our warehouse in Western Sydney to distribute to local families in need.

This month, we’re featuring Carevan Blacktown, a Foodbank community partner based in Western Sydney, NSW.

Carevan Blacktown, founded by teachers at Norwest Christian and Tyndale Public School, emerged in response to the community’s need to address food waste and support people facing financial hardship.

Collaborating with teachers and tech groups, the charity began by repurposing excess food that would otherwise go to waste. Under the leadership of Andrew Scott, now the Chief Executive Officer, Carevan Blacktown has expanded its operations to include a dedicated kitchen team of volunteers and receives generous donations of food from individuals and organisations alike.

featuring the Carevan Blacktown team

Carevan Blacktown team

This growth transformed the charity from a small initiative into a vital community resource. Caroline Del Aguila, a registered nurse at Red Cross LifeBlood, met Andrew and learned of Carevan Blacktown in 2013. Inspired by the cause and Andrew’s dedication, Caroline joined the team, fuelling their mission to combat food waste and provide essential meals to those in need.

Carevan Blacktown has a firsthand view of the sharp rise in demand for food relief felt across Australia. They began by serving a handful of people and now serve 130-150 community members per night, with Andrew even personally delivering meals to those unable to travel.

 

People come to us to save money on meals and we’re finding the demographic changing as the cost living continues to rise.

 

And then there is the shame aspect of reaching out for help – our communities feel like they ‘should be able to help themselves’ but the reality is, average families aren’t able to make ends meet like they used to.”

 

– Caroline Del Aguila

 

Despite the charity facing financial constraints and volunteer shortages, Caroline and Andrew remain committed to expanding Carevan Blacktown’s reach.

Through partnerships with organisations like Foodbank NSW & ACT, Carevan Blacktown continues to provide nutritious meals and essential services to families in need.

 

We provide a range of services these days, but food supplies are at the core of our service and Foodbank are critical and incredibly valuable to what we do. The fresh produce they provide makes such a difference too”.

 

– Caroline Del Aguila

Carevan Blacktown team

Carevan Blacktown continues to evolve to meet community’s needs, moving their operations to a warehouse to better facilitate food relief and collaborating with Westmead Hospital for health screening.

 

It can be hard work but is very rewarding. We are an amazing team, blessed with a terrific lead in Andrew and an awesome dedicated ‘family’ of volunteers who care about the community we serve.”

 

– Caroline Del Aguila

 

Carevan Blacktown team

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we rely on incredible organisations like Carevan Blacktown to get food relief to families in need. If you’re in the Western Sydney area needing food support, you can visit Carevan Blacktown at 1 Freeman Street, Lalor Park NSW 2147 on Tuesday nights from 7.15 pm – 8.30 pm. To learn more, visit their website carevanblacktown.org.au or contact info@carevanblacktown.org.au.

 

To connect to other Foodbank community partners in your area, please visit our Find Food portal.

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Struggling Australians go hungry to feed their pets

Thursday 11 April 2024: Pet owners living in food insecure households are resorting to self-sacrifice to protect the welfare of their pets, with almost a quarter (24%) skipping meals so their pets can eat.

According to a report published today by Foodbank Australia to mark National Pets Day, food insecure households value their pets to such an extent that they don’t want to let them go hungry. 

Despite continued cost of living pressures, surrendering pets is an absolute last resort with 14% of pet owners in food insecure households reported giving up a pet during the previous 12 months. As low as this is, it is still twice the national average for Australian households (7%).

The report, supported by Mars Petcare Australia, a long-standing donor to Foodbank with brands such as Pedigree and Whiskas, reveals that half (56%) of food insecure households in the past 12 months own a pet, higher than the Australian average (48%).

According to survey respondents, pets play a crucial role in their lives. They offer companionship, emotional support, increased social interaction and a sense of security and purpose – all of which can be otherwise challenging for those doing it tough.

“Many families facing food insecurity struggle to provide proper nutrition for themselves, let alone their pets, which can lead to significant health and wellbeing consequences for pet owners as well as their pets,” said Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey.

We have heard previously that parents skip meals in order to ensure their children can eat, but we are now hearing this sacrifice extends to the welfare of pets, who are very much-loved family members.”

Commenting on the report findings, General Manager of Mars Petcare Australia, Craig Sargeant said, “We know the valuable role pets play in Australian households, particularly households in need, and we are proud to support Foodbank in highlighting the struggle that pet parents in food insecure households are facing. This includes continuing our donation program with Foodbank focused on keeping pets healthy and remaining in loving homes.

We have heard previously that parents skip meals in order to ensure their children can eat, but we are now hearing this sacrifice extends to the welfare of pets, who are very much-loved family members.”

In 2023, Foodbank provided over 430,000 kilograms of pet food, valued at over $6 million, thanks to food industry partners such as Mars Petcare, yet the research reveals that only 9% of pet owners from food insecure households are aware that pet food is available as a part of food relief services.

“This figure is staggering and shouldn’t be happening. We want people to know if they are doing it tough, if they have pets, we can help them and their pets. Head to the Find Food button on our website to find a service near you that can assist,” said Ms Casey.

As part of Mars Petcare Australia’s ongoing support of Foodbank Australia to assist Australians experiencing food insecurity, Mars Petcare Associates will be donating their time on National Pet Day to make essential pet food hampers including Pedigree, Greenies, Whiskas and My Dog.

Want to know more?

Get involved

Your guide to packing school lunchboxes

Choosing what to pack in a healthy lunchbox can be confusing.

To make it easier, we’ve put together a simple guide that explains the five important food groups to include in your child’s lunch!

The five essential food groups

A balanced diet is crucial for children’s growth and development. It provides the nutrients they need for days full of playing and learning. A well-packed lunchbox helps improve their overall health, as well as their learning outcomes and social development. 

When packing a lunchbox, try to include items from the five main food groups: 

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1. Fruit & Vegetables

These are rich invitamins, minerals, and fibre, which are needed for healthy development. Try choosing fresh produce that is in season – not only will it taste better, but it will also be more affordable.

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2. Grains

Breads and cereals will provide the energy children need to take on the day! Choose whole grain varieties where possible, as they are more nutritious and will keep kids feeling full for longer.

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3. Proteins

Foods like lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of protein. They are essential for growth and repair of body tissues. Some healthy lunchbox options include tinned tuna or salmon, lean chicken or turkey, boiled eggs, lentils or beans.

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4. Dairy

Foods such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt provide the calcium needed to grow strong bones and teeth.

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5. Water

Always include a bottle of water. It’s the best thirst quencher and keeps children hydrated throughout their busy day.

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Helpful Tip

Remember, variety is key! Try to include different foods from each group to ensure your child gets a range of nutrients.

Helpful tip: Try freezing a water bottle and storing it with the lunch to keep it cool and safe until the lunch bell rings.

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, committed to ensuring everyone has access to nutritious foods. For personal health advice on what is right for your family, please speak to your local GP.

Download our guide here

Edward’s Story

Father. Grandfather. An everyday Queenslander struggling to make the pension go far enough.

At 76 years old, Edward has found himself like other pensioners, budgeting each week to make the pension go far enough. Despite these challenges, Edward has always drawn strength from being close to his family.

Father to two daughters and multiple grandchildren, Edward has always been a family man. When one of his daughters gave birth to a child with a disability, Edward moved closer to his family to help.

I have followed her around, you know, to be as much help as I can be. She’s got four kids, one of them disabled. Not easy. So, we did that for a few years, and then she decided to move down to Brisbane.” – Edward

For the last two decades, Edward has lived near his daughter and grandchildren. Their bond is a special one and living nearby has meant that they have always been around to offer each other support. This was a crucial source of strength during the COVID pandemic when Edward was required to isolate.

This year, however, his daughter was lucky to find love again. This saw her move away from Brisbane, leaving Edward alone.

She is so happy now that she’s found this man. And I’m so happy to see how happy she is. But, jeez, I miss her.” – Edward

With his daughter no longer nearby and the pension not stretching as far due to higher living costs, Edward is feeling the pinch of rising grocery prices.

“I’m on a pension, which is limited… And I don’t have a lot of other money. So, I’m basically living off what the pension gives me every two weeks. And half of that goes to my rent.” – Edward

To help reduce the stress that comes with searching for discounted food, Edward has found relief at one of Foodbank Queensland’s over 300 Member Charities.  At the Foodbank Member Charity, Edward finds both community connection and food to help make the week a little easier.

I’ve had problems with always chasing specials and buying fruit that’s three days old and stuff like that, you know.  And I found this place.” – Edward

At the Foodbank Member Charity, a free breakfast and groceries are offered to those doing it tough in the local area.  Here, Edward has met other individuals who are facing difficult times.

I can get food here for free and there is the joy of meeting some very nice people here. And whatever is on offer will always suit me. Because I eat what I have, not what I want. They have a lot of green veggies and stuff like that.”

Edward always takes care not to waste food and returns any excess that he knows he won’t consume, hoping that someone else in need will benefit.

When asked how thankful Edward is to Foodbank Queensland Donors and how their donations help to run the Foodbank Member Charity, Edward said:

I’m extremely thankful. Extremely so because at my age and stage, my mobility is not so good. I’ve got this health issue that’s going on at the same time. It’s not just the cost of the stuff, but I live far away from the grocery stores. It’s probably a kilometre and a half to Woolies or Coles and then I have to carry it up the hill to go back home.”

Thanks to your generosity, pensioners like Edward have access to fresh produce and food when and where they need it most.

*Edward is a real Queenslander in need. His name has been changed to protect his identity.

Community Partner Story FareShare

For the last five years, Foodbank Queensland and FareShare Brisbane have been working closely together to support Queenslanders in need.

Foodbank Queensland plays a crucial role by providing the majority of ingredients for FareShare’s Brisbane kitchen. Foodbank takes pride in supplying these essential resources that FareShare transforms into nutritious, ready-to-eat meals for those in need. Working hand in hand, to ensure that donated food reaches its fullest potential, this partnership serves as a lifeline for individuals and families experiencing hardship in Queensland.

The produce Foodbank Queensland provides to FareShare includes fresh produce rescued from Queensland farms. This produce is donated directly to Foodbank due to several reasons, such as not meeting supermarket specifications or oversupply. Instead of this perfectly edible food going to waste, Foodbank rescues the produce and freely provides it to FareShare to prepare into meals.  Ben O’Donoghue, Foodbank Queensland Ambassador, joined James, Production Manager at FareShare Brisbane on a tour of the facility recently, Ben commented,

It was amazing to be shown the impressive cooking facilities and kitchen at FareShare. The awesome work that Foodbank and FareShare complete together is essential, not only helping Queenslanders in need but also farmers and the environment.” – Ben

featured image

With Queensland’s largest commercial charity kitchen, FareShare has cooked over 6 million meals for hungry Queenslanders in the past five years alone. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to FareShare’s dedication to combating hunger and nourishing communities across Queensland.

Their impact extends far beyond the kitchen, touching the lives of countless individuals and families who rely on their nutritious meals. This is needed more than ever with the cost-of-living crisis and other impacts, as James explained,

“We’ve had a huge influx of population moving into Queensland for the last five years. This puts pressure on the housing market, increase in cost & supply. Then throw a couple of floods on top of that. This has pushed people into reaching out for a helping hand for the first time.  Houseless/Homeless is being noticed in a growing rate in our city & suburbs. Some of these people, just need a helping hand, others require long term support. And if it’s one our FareShare meals, that is the start of that process, then WOW.  What better way?” – James

featured image

featured image

The rise in meal production has been essential, as the growing demand for support by FareShare and other food relief charities continues to rise.

January saw a double in production of nutritious meals from 54,000 in 2023, to just over 109,000 meals in 2024.” – James

These meals are mostly packaged in a single-serve container, packed with protein and vegetables. These ready-to-eat meals include casseroles, stir-fry’s,  soups, pasta dishes and stews.  Each week, the menu changes depending on what produce, and groceries are donated. This requires the staff at FareShare to not only be experienced in the kitchen but also creative and flexible in their cooking with the added support of a 400 strong volunteer workforce.

For many people, a FareShare meal will be the only meal of the day and our chefs do everything possible to make it count.”

After FareShare chefs cook up tasty meals, Foodbank Queensland distributes them to frontline charities. This partnership ensures that together, Foodbank and FareShare are helping as many Queenslanders as possible,

“We certainly can’t work without Foodbank. The support that Foodbank gives us as far as logistical support is huge. It’s invaluable. Produce received from Foodbank enables us to create a diverse & culturally appropriate nutritious meal for zero cost to charity agencies.  385,000 tonnes of surplus, rescued & donated produce last year has helped a vast number of families right across Queensland, from as far north as Mornington Is, Carins, Mt. Isa, Townsville, Dalby, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, St. George, Gold Coast.   – James

featured image

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FareShare is also continuing to expand its other programs including its First Nations Program, ‘Meals for the Mob’, as well as creating non-perishable meals, ideal for providing food relief in remote and regional Australia, and for communities impacted by natural disasters.

As this partnership continues, Foodbank Queensland hopes to further expand its reach and impact to communities across the state, including distributing FareShare meals to rural Queensland.

However, this is not possible without your support. By donating to Foodbank Queensland, you can directly contribute to providing nutritious meals to those facing hardship in Queensland. Donate here to make a difference.

Allianz Partners teams up with Foodbank Australia to improve international students’ well being

Allianz Partners has partnered with Foodbank Australia to help alleviate the burden of financial hardship and food insecurity among international students studying in Australia. 

This year Allianz Partners and Foodbank will host seven market-style events on campuses across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The partnership will help more than 3,300 students this year, providing over $120,000 of food. At each event, international students will be given the opportunity to receive up to $50 worth of food, which could include items such as fresh fruit, vegetables, staples such as pasta and rice, and frozen nutritious ready-made meals. 

The partnership follows a report from Monash University (2023), highlighting the financial pressures faced by international students. The study reveals a concerning trend of financial strain, particularly in accessing nutritious food, leading to deteriorating mental and physical wellbeing across the nation. 

Miranda Fennell, Executive Head of Health and Foodbank Ambassador, said this partnership is a proactive step towards improving the wellbeing of international students studying in Australia, amid rising hardship.  

“The rising cost of living has led international students to rely on charitable organisations to meet their most basic needs, emphasising the need for further support,” Miranda Fennell said. 

“We want to ensure the wider international student community is receiving the support they need so they can focus on their education and fully experience living in Australia,” added Fennell.  

Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey said there is a reported1 correlation between hunger and concentration. 

“We know it becomes more difficult to concentrate and focus when you are hungry which ultimately affects the ability to learn. University is hard enough without having the added pressure of not knowing where your next meal is coming from. This partnership with Allianz Partners will enable many university students up and down the eastern seaboard to have access to nutritious food,” said Ms Casey.

This partnership also builds on Allianz Partners’ culture of assistance with employees getting regular hands-on volunteering opportunities at Foodbank Australia sites across Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.

Stuart’s
volunteer story

“It’s not just a job. It’s about being part of something bigger.”

Five years ago, Stuart traded his social work hat for a Foodbank volunteer badge. He craved purpose during retirement and found it in familiar territory – helping others.

“I actually started volunteering with the Mobile Foodbank back when it was just this little old ute with a freezer box on the back,” Stuart chuckled. “It’s definitely come a long way since then.”

What really keeps Stuart coming back is the social interaction and strong team spirit:

“I really enjoy coming to work here. It’s a great team environment and a chance to not only be part of a team and have great social interactions, but a way of giving back. It has a feel-good factor about it.”

He loves the autonomy of working on our Mobile Foodbank – just him, the customer, and his work skills in practice.

But really, it’s the sense of purpose that keeps him engaged. “It’s not just a job. It’s about being part of something bigger.”

“Before I came here, I was a social worker helping men transition from prison. Purpose and a sense of belonging were key for them. I really felt that when I retired from management. One day you’re a boss and have a team, the next you’re at home. Volunteering gave me a new purpose.”

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Talison Lithium displays how it is easy to show you care

Fill your cup by filling a Hawaiian Giving Box

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Fill your cup by filling a Hawaiian Giving Box

Give a Feed in 2025

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Give a Feed in 2025

nom! wins over Wheatbelt schools 

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nom! wins over Wheatbelt schools 

Hancock Iron Ore supports nom! Children in regional WA

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Hancock Iron Ore supports nom! Children in regional WA

Alice worked hard all her adult life, now she has nowhere to go

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Alice worked hard all her adult life, now she has nowhere to go

Striking a pose at the Telethon Family Festival

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Striking a pose at the Telethon Family Festival

nom! Kids Kitchen at the2025 Perth Royal Show: that’s a wrap!

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nom! Kids Kitchen at the2025 Perth Royal Show:  that’s a wrap!

Why it’s important to ‘let it go’

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Why it’s important to ‘let it go’

Lotterywest donation boosts Foodbank WA’s fresh food distribution capacity

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Lotterywest donation boosts Foodbank WA’s fresh food distribution capacity

In a world where you can be anything, be kind

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In a world where you can be anything, be kind

nom! Schools creating lasting impact

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nom! Schools creating lasting impact

Building confidence and healthy habits with the nom! Children program

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Building confidence and healthy habits with the nom! Children program

Bigger than the game

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Bigger than the game

School Breakfast Program really delivers

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School Breakfast Program really delivers

Foodbank WA Community Kitchen delivers half a million meals

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Foodbank WA Community Kitchen delivers half a million meals

Regional partnerships help to meet growing demand

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Regional partnerships help to meet growing demand

Foodbank WA fights hunger with FREE fruit and vegetables

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Foodbank WA fights hunger with FREE fruit and vegetables

Protein power

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Protein power

Ex-squeeze me, did someone say oranges?

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Ex-squeeze me, did someone say oranges?

Stand-by list for Christmas Hampers

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Stand-by list for Christmas Hampers

Powering food relief in Kalgoorlie Goldfields

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Powering food relief in Kalgoorlie Goldfields

Those most vulnerable, hit hardest

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Those most vulnerable, hit hardest

A thank you to melt hearts

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A thank you to melt hearts

From broken to brave

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From broken to brave

At Costa, every mushroom counts

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At Costa, every mushroom counts

Get involved

Whether you donate to Foodbank WA with funds or food, give your time through volunteering, or simply spread the word, your involvement helps to feed hope and grow more resilient communities. 
No one can do everything–but everyone can do something!

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Individuals, community groups, schools and businesses all get involved raising funds for Foodbank WA. We’d love your help too when it comes to community fundraising for food assistance.

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Volunteering with Foodbank WA gives you the chance to directly help people in a fun and flexible way. You could be helping shoppers choose affordable food, assisting in our warehouse, helping at a Mobile Foodbank, in our Community Kitchen preparing delicious meals, at a Foodbank stall or an event.

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The truth about canned foods

 

International Women's Day at Foodbank NSW & ACT

 

 

As the cost-of-living crisis continues, more and more people are forced to compromise on what and when they eat.

Across all communities but particularly in regional and remote towns where produce is more expensive than in metropolitan areas, many families now purchase canned foods over their fresh produce alternatives.

 

Canned foods often have a bad reputation, but did you know they can be just as nutritious as their fresh and frozen options, and at a more affordable price? Here’s the truth about canned foods.

Preserving nutrients

Contrary to popular belief, canned foods can be just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts. How? It all starts with timing.

 

Picture this: a sun-kissed tomato, plucked at the peak of ripeness, bursting with flavour and nutrients. Now imagine that same tomato being carefully sealed into a can within hours of harvest. That’s exactly what happens with many canned fruits and vegetables.

 

Why it matters: 

 

The canning process locks in essential vitamins and minerals, preserving them until you’re ready to enjoy your meal.  

 

While some heat-sensitive vitamins (like vitamin C) may experience minor losses, overall nutrient retention remains. In fact, canned tomatoes become richer in lycopene — an antioxidant linked to heart health — during the canning process. 

tomatoes

 

The sodium conundrum

beans

 

“But aren’t all canned foods loaded with sodium aka salt?” you ask. Not necessarily! While some canned products do contain added salt, that’s not the case for all of them.  

 

Most canned vegetables, soups, and meats offer low-sodium or sodium-free versions. These alternatives cater to families who want the convenience of canned goods without compromising on their health.

 

Helpful tip: 

 

When using canned beans or other legumes, give them a good rinse under cold water. This simple step reduces sodium content significantly.

The environment

Canned foods are more than just affordable and convenient.

 

Their extended shelf life means that canned goods don’t spoil as quickly as fresh produce. They can sit patiently on your pantry shelf, waiting for their moment to shine. This extended shelf life means fewer fruits and veggies tossed into the compost bin. 

 

Canned foods also support more efficient transportation. How? Picture a truck hauling fresh produce across long distances. Now imagine that same truck loaded with canned goods. The latter requires less delicate handling, fewer refrigeration units, and less fuel.

 

Did you know: 

 

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we travel over 4.5 million kilometres every year picking up and distributing food and groceries to families across the state and territory. That’s more than 5 trips to the moon and back!

Foodbank truck

 

So, what’s the verdict?

Canned foods can form part of an affordable, healthy diet, offering families convenience, shelf stability and nutritional value. If you’re looking to try adding some more canned foods to your shopping list, a great place to start is with canned veggies, beans, fish and fruits.

 

For personal health advice on what is right for your family, please speak to your local GP.

 

If you or someone you know needs support, please visit our Find Food portal so we can connect you to a Foodbank community partner in your area.

We’re here to help

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