For so many families across Western Australia, Christmas is not a source of joy, instead it carries the nagging worry of being able to put enough food on the table.
As the cost of living continues to escalate, Foodbank WA are seeing more and more people struggle to put food on the table. Before COVID we would assist about 200 households a day through our network. Some days this is now over 800. Nicole is one of those people, read about her story.
In October 2022 Foodbank released the Hunger Report which included shocking statistics that1 in 3 households experienced food insecurity in the last 12 months, meaning they were and are unsure of where their next meal will come from.1 in 5 households experienced severe food insecurity meaning that they often have to miss meals to make ends meet. Heartbreakingly, this figure includes 116,000 children.
Purple Plates for Christmas is our latest initiative to raise much-needed funds to fill the plates of families throughout the State and give hope to those struggling. Purple Plates represent the empty plates that are on too many Western Australian tables.
Foodbank WA CEO Kate O'Hara said, "Food for some is starting to be seen as a discretionary spend because rent, mortgage, utility bills are set costs that need to be paid. The car still needs to be filled. Food is where people can reduce their spend."
That's why we're asking for help to fill the plates of families in need this Christmas with our Purple Plates for Christmas Appeal. Donations will help feed families over this festive season and especially on Christmas Day.
Kate O'Hara continued "Thankfully many of us will not know the hidden pain and stress of empty plates, especially at Christmas. The shocking reality is that this year, for 208,000households in the state, this is an everyday battle.
The need for food relief in Western Australia continues to grow. Last financial year we provided over 7.8 million meals to Western Australians who are going without. That is a staggering 1 million more than the previous year.
It's not just the people on the streets but the people in our street, and sadly all indicators are pointing to an increase in demand for our services in the coming year.
We're urging the community to dig deep and help us fill the plates for the most vulnerable Western Australians this Christmas. A full stomach is more than a just gift, it should be a right."
Donate today online or by adding a purple plate to your order at these Perth restaurants
" Long Chim Tuck Shop (State Building, Perth)
" Shop 1875 (State Building, Perth)
" King Hotpot (Victoria Park)
" King Hotpot (Morley)
