Foodbank Queensland, the state's largest hunger relief charity, is facing a perfect storm as the demand for food assistance skyrockets, while food donations plummet. This is placing immense strain on the charities' ability to meet the needs of vulnerable communities across Queensland.
Rising cost-of-living expenses has led to a surge in the number of individuals and families seeking essential food relief. At the same time, Foodbank Queensland is grappling with a decline in food donations, which is impacting their ability to provide crucial support to those in need.
Farmers, who play a vital role in supplying excess stock to Foodbank Queensland, are dealing with their own financial pressures. As their costs escalate, farmers are finding themselves unable to contribute as much produce, impacting Foodbank Queensland's ability to provide this fresh, nutritious food to Queenslanders facing hunger.
"The current situation presents a perfect storm for food insecurity in Queensland," says Jess Watkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Foodbank Queensland.
"Last week we lost the support of Cross Family Farms due to the rising cost-of-living challenges. A generous farming family who supplied more than 1 million kilograms of farm fresh food to Foodbank Queensland per year. We are experiencing a significant increase in the number of Members, schools and communities who require food relief. However, the decline in food donations, particularly fresh produce from our generous Queensland farmers, is hampering our efforts to address this growing crisis."
Almost half of the food donated to Foodbank Queensland is fresh fruit and vegetables from Queensland farmers. Last financial year, Foodbank Queensland rescued $37 million worth of fresh produce, which was provided to thousands of families in need at no cost.
Despite ongoing efforts to secure additional donations and support, Foodbank Queensland is struggling to provide enough food to the Members, schools and communities that rely on the essential food and grocery staples that Foodbank Queensland provides.
"We urge individuals, business owners and community organisations to help at this critical time," says Jess.
"With their support, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who are facing hunger. Every contribution, whether a donation to Foodbank to help us source more food or a donation of food direct to your local charity, has the power to alleviate hunger and help those in need."
Foodbank Queensland is committed to recognising their valued food donors and are supporting a National Food Donation Tax Incentive that would encourage more food donations.
"We support a new tax incentive for food donations to encourage food producers, manufacturers and retailers to donate more stock. The current tax regulation treats donating as no different to dumping," says Jess.
"A National Food Donation Tax Incentive would support primary producers and other service providers who are committed to the reduction of food waste and to supporting Queensland households experiencing food insecurity."
Foodbank Queensland remains committed to providing essential food relief to communities across the state.
To support Queenslanders in need, please visit foodbank.org.au to donate directly, or, to find a local charity who accepts food donations by using the Foodbank "Find Food" map.
