5 MILLION meals – thanks to YOU!

Victorians really are the MOST generous people on earth – helping us raise over 5,000,000 meals in our Christmas Appeal!

Tilly arrived at one of Foodbank’s free community Christmas lunches at the Morwell Community Food Centre with mum and dad and showed us how the most simple and beautiful gesture can change someone’s day. Can lift people up and get them through a not-so-great week, month or year. Thanks Tilly…you’re amazing 😊 

Meanwhile in Melbourne, our farmers style markets gave 500 hard-working families the chance to fill their baskets and bags with more than 8,000 kilos of fresh produce and essential ingredients while the bluesy sounds of our live band brought smiles to all those tired faces.

We know how much your support meant to all those families and market visitors… because they told us!

“I’ve been coming to Foodbank for a couple of years, and it’s been a real help. I struggled to afford food and basic things. Foodbank has been such a blessing — I’m really glad it’s here.”

Kathy

“Sometimes I’m short of food, and this organisation has always been kind and gentle when I need help. I’m happy to be here.”

“I used to be a chef. I can cook from almost anything — even flour, I can make fresh pasta. My spaghetti marinara? No one makes it like I do.”

Francisco

“I’m out of work, so I pay the bills before I buy food. There’s often nothing left.”

“We skip meals. Holidays? No money. No plans.”

Doug

“Whatever we have, I try to make work — baking bread, Vegemite scrolls, anything. I sit and think about what we can make just so we can eat.”

“Without this help, it’s really hard. Everything’s so expensive. I just try to make things that will fill us up.”

Jillian

“I’ve been through domestic violence, and this support has meant so much. The food is amazing, and I’m really grateful for all the help.”

Kelly

“After my husband’s work accident, we hit hard times. Without this support, it would be that choice — food on the table or the lights on.”

“The help here has been incredible. When we’re back on our feet, I hope I can give back.”

Tania

Every $1 donated is 2 meals created

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When fires change everything –  Leanne’s long road to recovery

In the days and weeks after the fires began, we’ve witnessed first-hand incredible acts of kindness, of people coming together to support each other through extraordinary hardship… like you always do.

Leanne and her husband had a dream — to retire to the country and spend their days enjoying the quiet beauty of rural Carlisle. But things have been tougher than they ever expected. As pensioners, they worked hard to build up their six acre property and care for their livestock, which helped feed both them and their extended family. To make ends meet, they began accessing their local foodbank to supplement their meals. “That market day saves me and my husband. I often forgo feeding us to feed my animals.”

Then, just last weekend, fire arrived at their back door. Leanne was evacuated with their dogs and cat, while her husband stayed behind to look after the other animals. This is where we met her at the Colac Showgrounds in the emergency relief centre. She was staying in a caravan.

After evacuations, Leanne says it’s the recovery that’s hardest: “The evacuation is a lot, but then you have to go back and sort everything out.”

This is why we need to be there for the long term, to support people like Leanne and her husband not just in the moment of crisis, but also through the long road to recovery.

Every $1 donated is
2 meals created

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From little things mega things GROW

Did you know that Australia produces three times more than enough food to feed our population? Yet every year more than 50 million kilos of fruit and veggies never leave our farms when supply exceeds demand.

With your help, we’ve created our program GROW – a new way to get more healthy food to communities across the state.
Click the video below to see how you’re helping to GROW the amount of food we supply to hungry communities every day.

Every $1 donated is
2 meals created

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You had us at Altona!

Step inside the doors of our brand new warehouse!

Click the video below to join our CEO Dave on a virtual tour of our brand-new digs at 459 Kororoit Creek Road, Altona.

Every $1 donated is
2 meals created

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A recipe for belonging

When Broadmeadows Special Development School (Sorrento Campus) introduced the Cooking Classes program to their community the goal was simple: create a space where families could come together, cook, and share a meal. What happened next was far more powerful than anyone expected.

Each Wednesday, the school kitchen filled with laughter, chatter, and the aroma of something delicious. Parents rolled up their sleeves alongside their children, learning new recipes and discovering ingredients they’d never tried before. For most of the families taking part this was about more than simply cooking together, it was a chance to spend quality time with their children in a setting that was warm and welcoming for them.

The Cooking Classes team, as always, worked hard to make the program inclusive. Recipes were simple, affordable, and family-friendly, so everyone could participate confidently. Families could continue the experience at home with their weekly hampers filled with fresh ingredients, with some recreating the class recipes for their entire household, turning a school activity into a new family tradition.

And the experience didn’t end in the kitchen. After each session, students and families gathered at specially created tables – complete with tablecloths and flower centrepieces – to enjoy the meal they had prepared together. It felt like their own little restaurant. These shared meals became a highlight of the week, reinforcing the sense of community and belonging that the program set out to create.

One parent summed it up perfectly: “It’s been really great. E gets so excited about our special time together on Wednesdays. We’ve even made the recipes at home for her sisters. And the hampers? We love looking through them together – it’s like opening a treasure chest of good food.”

The beauty of the school’s diversity also means that for some, cultural or financial challenges led to feelings of isolation. The Cooking Classes program was a lifeline for them, because it wasn’t just about food, it was also about connection. Parents met other parents, shared stories, and built friendships. For some, this was the first time they’d felt part of a community.

Of course, the students loved the classes too. Every Wednesday they’d be excited to see their parents at school and proud to show off their newly acquired knife and cooking skills. Teachers also noticed that students who usually shy away from new foods were willing to taste, and even enjoy, what they’d made.

From the school’s perspective, the program was a game-changer:

“The parents have really enjoyed coming in, and the children are so excited each Wednesday. One of the best parts is seeing kids try new foods, especially those who are usually averse to it. The hampers are a real treat for families.

“We’re so thankful to be part of this program. The team has done an amazing job adapting it to suit our students. It’s a wonderful initiative!”

Home Food Packs – Tailored Support

Schools are finding practical ways to support identified students and their families who need a little extra help through the home food packs program. The School Breakfast Clubs Program isn’t just about providing meals at school – it also supports students who may not have enough food or access to nutritious food at home. The home food packs are designed to offer flexibility, choice, and solutions that work for each school community.

Giving Families Choice

A south-eastern primary school has taken a proactive approach by introducing a pantry system. Rather than sending the pre-packed boxes home, the school recognised that families value the ability to choose what works best for them. This simple change means families can select the items they need, helping reduce waste and giving them more control.

The pantry is stocked with items from the School Breakfast Clubs Program menu, ensuring access to nutritious staples. And donations from a local church add extra variety, making it a true community effort that keeps the shelves full and the options wide ranging.

This approach makes support feel natural and easy. Students and their families can get what they need without feeling restricted, and the process encourages independence and comfort during challenging times.

Keeping Support Private

A west Victorian school has developed a thoughtful approach to supporting families who need extra food at home. They know that how support is delivered matters, so they focus on privacy and practicality.

Instead of sending the pre-packed boxes home in one go, the school divides them into smaller, manageable portions. These are packed into School Breakfast Clubs Program calico bags, which fit inside a student’s school bag so food can be carried home discreetly.

Staff also arrange quiet pick-up times when other students aren’t around. This small but important consideration means schools can support students and their families with dignity and respect. It’s a simple system that makes getting help feel easy and comfortable.

Responding When Demand Spikes

When a secondary college saw a surge in need during winter, driven by rising energy bills and household pressures, they acted quickly. The school requested extra home food packs to meet demand, showing how important it is to be responsive and flexible when families need more support.

Life can change quickly, and being prepared makes all the difference. The home food pack program provides reassurance for schools and supports students who may not have enough food or access to nutritious meals at home.

These examples show that schools aren’t just handing out home food packs – they’re listening to their communities and adapting the program to fit real needs. And that’s what truly makes a difference.


Lessons That Go Beyond the Kitchen    

When Deer Park West Primary School joined the Cooking Classes Program, it sparked more than just excitement, it ignited a journey of learning, connection, and growth. The program proved that cooking is a powerful tool for education, bringing families together while teaching essential skills that extend far beyond the kitchen. 

At its core, the program is about more than preparing meals, it’s about learning through doing. Each week, students explore new recipes, learning how to follow instructions, measure ingredients, and work collaboratively. These hands-on experiences nurtured confidence, curiosity, and creativity. 

At Deer Park West, older siblings stepped up to lead the cooking process, while younger ones eagerly joined in, chopping veggies and cracking eggs. The pop-up kitchen became another classroom, and every meal became a lesson in teamwork, responsibility, and pride. 

“My mum and I have learned a lot from the program and hope it can bring us closer together at home and in the kitchen.” — Abigail, Student 

The take-home hampers, filled with fresh produce, encouraged families to think creatively and resourcefully. Whether following the provided recipes or inventing their own, families learned how to make the best of what they had on hand. 

One parent reflected: 

“Cooking for the family used to be difficult. I didn’t always know what to make or how to please everyone. Now, with the kids helping and the recipes provided, I feel more confident.” 

This shift in mindset, from uncertainty to confidence, highlights how the program empowers families to learn together and support one another. 

A key part of the program is the introduction to kitchen safety and nutrition education. Students mastered knife safety techniques such as the rock and chop, the claw, and the bridge, building their confidence with each session. Cooking classes aren’t just about preparing food – they’re about learning how to be safe, responsible, and independent. 

In addition to cooking skills, students also learned to read nutrition labels and ingredient lists. This eye-opening experience is helping them make informed, healthier choices, like opting for fruit-infused water instead of soft drinks. 

The Cooking Classes Program teaches students and families how to: 

  • Cook and experiment with ingredients 
  • Work together and support one another 
  • Stay safe in the kitchen 
  • Make healthier choices 
  • Be confident and resourceful 

These are lessons that go far beyond the kitchen they’re lessons for life. The Cooking Classes Program at Deer Park West Primary School was more than just preparing food, it was a way to bond and build skills that will last well beyond the program. 

Big thanks to placement student Angelina for her contributions to the Cooking Classes at Deer Park West, both in the kitchen and with helping to write this case study.

BEPS Brekky Club Fuels Friendship and Future Leaders 

Each morning at Brunswick East Primary School (BEPS), the Breakfast Club leaders arrive early and get straight to work. They set up serving tables, lay out cereal, reusable cutlery and crockery, make toast and jaffles, and slice fresh fruit. It’s a smooth, cheerful routine that feels like it’s been part of the school forever – yet Breakfast Club has only been running for three terms. 

Since launching in Term 4, 2024, the program has quickly become a much-loved part of daily life at BEPS. Starting at three days a week, it now runs every school day thanks to its growing popularity and impact. More than just a place to grab a bite, Breakfast Club is a space where students connect, support one another, and grow as leaders. 

From the beginning, the vision was clear: Breakfast Club would be student-led. BEPS Principal Erin Wiley explains, “It’s part of our leadership program. Student involvement was a given. Right from the beginning, we signed up with the intention that our student leaders would run the show.”

Year 6 students were invited to self-nominate, and the school’s Education Support staff helped formalise the structure with a job description. Students then applied for the role of ‘Breakfast Club Leader’, delivering self-written speeches to a panel of teachers. Those selected take on real responsibility, training helpers, managing supplies, topping up fruit bowls, and ensuring leftovers are shared with classrooms to avoid waste. Leaders rotate on a two-week roster, giving many students the chance to step up and shine via the breakfast club helper initiative – also student led.

Breakfast Club Helpers are year 5/6’s who are approached and encouraged by leaders to add their names to the fortnightly roster. They are mentored and guided by breakfast club leader, to encourage helpers to put their hand up for future leadership roles.  

This inclusive, hands-on approach has helped the BEPS students build skills that go far beyond the breakfast table. They learn how to work as a team, take initiative, and support their peers. “I’ve learnt how to encourage little kids and make them smile,” says Finn. And Audrey “learnt how to make jaffles and work a really weird dishwasher.”  

Younger students look up to the leaders, especially the preps. “They see us as role models… when they’re in Grade 6 they might put their hand up to be a Breakfast Club leader,” beamed Audrey with pride “I like that we get to inspire them”. Finn’s also proud that he can “inspire other kids to do it.”  

Beyond breakfast, the club plays a vital role in student wellbeing. It’s a gentle, welcoming start to the day, especially for new students and those feeling anxious. It’s also become a key part of the Prep Transition process, helping little ones settle in and feel part of the school community right from the get-go.  

Brunswick East Primary School’s Breakfast Club is a remarkable example of what happens when students are trusted to lead. It’s a space filled with warmth, purpose, and plenty of toast – where friendships are formed, confidence grows, and future leaders are made. 

And in true BEPS style, Finn summed it up with a grin: “We’re awesome sauce!” Yep, we think you’re awesome sauce too, Finn. 

Not such a chilly result

Thanks to you, our Winter Appeal put over 6 million meals into the hands of people at breaking point across Victoria.

Together, we created 6 MILLION places at the table for people who really needed our help (that’s one loooong table!) Amongst those 6 million places at the table, you’ll find so many inspiring people – like Rebecca, who was able to nourish her family when all the odds were against her.

With drought conditions forcing regional families to make heartbreaking choices like feeding their livestock or their kids, and Foodbank charity partners across Victoria unable to keep up with demand – we needed to act. Quickly. Essentials like tuna, rice, pasta and cereal were disappearing from our shelves at record rates and we couldn’t get our hands on enough fresh fruit and veg to feed the 69,000 VICTORIANS A DAY who depend on us. Then YOU showed up with a little sunshine for us to share with EVERYONE we support. Helping us raise over 6 MILLION MEALS in our Winter Appeal!

Remember Rebecca, who worked so hard to get her family into a financially secure situation until devastating health issues took out all their savings? Thanks to you, she was able to nourish her family through winter and focus on the things that truly matter.

“KNOWING I DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT HOW WE’LL PUT FOOD ON THE TABLE MEANS I CAN SPEND TIME WITH MY FAMILY WITHOUT THE LOOMING FEAR. I’M MORE PRESENT WHICH MEANS SO MUCH TO ME.”

Now, what does 6 million meals actually look like? Well, we could say that’s enough plates of food to line the Great Ocean Road 250 times. Or enough meals to feed everyone in the MCG, 60 times over. The reality is, you helped create A PLACE AT OUR TABLE for 6 million people.

Every $1 donated is
2 meals created

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55 million reasons why…

A School Breakfast Clubs Program Milestone

With more than 1,200 Victorian schools playing their part, it goes without saying that every school puts their own unique spin on our School Breakfast Clubs Program. But one fact rings true for every single one of them – they’ve all officially helped us serve 55 MILLION MEALS to school kids right across Victoria 🎉

Picture this. We’re in East Gippsland, where dozens of kids are waking up, raring to go, getting ready for their school day at Eagle Point Primary.

They rush into the school kitchen, where mums and dads, nans and pops, and kids of all ages are grabbing their volunteer badges, excitedly preparing for their School Brekky Club for the day. Later, the kids head to class with full bellies, wide awake and ready to learn all kinds of brilliant things.

This is just ONE example of 1,200 VICTORIAN SCHOOLS doing the very same thing. Every single morning, every single day, all thanks to our School Breakfast Clubs Program in partnership with Vic Government.

Every school puts their own spin on School Brekky Club, but one fact rings true for every one of them. They’ve all contributed to the awesome milestone we reached this year: 55 MILLION MEALS served up to school kids right across Victoria since 2016. An effort we’re SO proud of, that would never have been possible if it wasn’t for the staff, students, and volunteers who roll up their sleeves to make it happen, right across Victoria!

Every $1 donated is
2 meals created

Donate today

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