Expanding choice and dignity

For years, food relief often meant pre-packed hampers filled with long-life staples. While these items are essential, they don’t always reflect what households truly need or want. 

Through customer surveys and conversations with our charity partners and customers we heard a clear message: people want the ability to choose. They want to shop for the foods they’ll actually use, just like they would have previously. 

Being able to visit us directly at our branches or Mobile Foodbanks makes this possible. Instead of receiving a set pack or bundle, households and agencies can select from a wide range of groceries and essentials. This simple change has a big impact. It reduces waste, improves dietary flexibility and creates a more typical shopping experience – something that matters when life feels anything but typical. 

To ensure we had a steady supply of key staples we started purchasing products like rice, pasta sauces, canned vegetables etc. Next year we will have an additional 20 items available.

Choice means better health outcomes and our expanding this range allows us to stock culturally appropriate foods, fresh produce and healthier options alongside everyday items like toothpaste, dishwashing liquid and laundry powder. It’s about making it easier for families to plan proper meals and maintain their household with dignity.

We’ve come a long way from a limited range of ambient staples. Today, our shelves include fresh fruit and vegetables – which are free for all customers – and a growing variety of pantry and hygiene products. This expansion is supported by strong partnerships with growers, manufacturers and donors who share our commitment to reducing food waste and feeding Western Australians doing it tough.