Foodbank Kalgoorlie has formed a new partnership with KCGM, Saracen Mineral Holdings and Northern Star Resources, to support the local community in response to COVID-19.
Foodbank WA CEO Greg Hebble said the partnership would provide substantial support to Foodbank Kalgoorlie at a time when its services will be relied on more than ever before.
While Mr Hebble said that the immediate health risk had eased, the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 will be long lasting. He said Foodbank WA is expecting to see a steep rise in the number of people needing food assistance once the government stimulus and support packages finish as indicated at the end of September, so they need as much help as possible for the government, local business and community members.
Foodbank Kalgoorlie Branch Manager Tracey Luke said COVID-19 has had a huge impact on their ability to provide for people in need, with services severely compromised as a result.
“This important partnership will allow us to better provide for the growing number of people in need in the Goldfields region and will allow us to purchase essential foods that we need on a daily basis,” said Mrs Luke.
“It will help our local community through the difficult times ahead and we’re so incredibly grateful.
“It will also enable us to purchase critical equipment and infrastructure for the branch to enhance our day-to-day operations,” she added.
A direct result of the partnership with KCGM, Saracen and Northern Star, has already enabled Foodbank Kalgoorlie to hire a much-needed forklift.
“The forklift has a much smaller turning circle which will allow us to reconfigure the warehouse and create more space,” said Mrs Luke.
“Not only will this make our branch a lot more functional, it will provide an improved shopping experience for our customers.”
“This partnership is all about ensuring we exit COVID-19 as strong as possible, and we are already in a much better position.”
KCGM General Manager, Kous Kirsten said KCGM is proud to partner with joint venture owners Saracen and Northern Star, to support Foodbank in assisting people currently facing unprecedented challenges as a result of COVID-19, and to support the organisation during recovery.
“Our combined workforce are passionate about developing collaborative, sustainable partnerships in our community that help to create value and improve lives,” said Mr Kous.
“Foodbank WA provides essential support for families and people in need in the Goldfields region and we are proud to assist their dedicated team,” he concluded.
KCGM, Northern Star and Saracen workers will also participate in volunteering opportunities at the Foodbank Kalgoorlie branch once COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, providing hunger relief to those who are most vulnerable in the Goldfields region.
Northern Star Resources General Counsel and Company Secretary Hilary Macdonald is also currently leading the charge in Foodbank’s Meal Makers, with more than $17,000 donated to date.
About Foodbank WA
Foodbank WA was established in 1994 and is now helping to feed tens of thousands of people every month. Foodbank WA supplies food and groceries to over 400 registered charities throughout the State, that provide emergency food assistance to people in need. Foodbank WA operates a distribution centre at Perth Airport, as well as in Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton, Boulder and Mandurah, to service regional areas. Their new Mobile Foodbank service also provides hampers to people in need throughout the metro area in partnership with local charities.
Learn more about how Foodbank WA is helping to fight hunger, by visiting their website or following them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Foodbank’s Winter Appeal is on now, with donations accepted in the form of food, services and funds. Every $1 donated to Foodbank WA provides two meals for people in need.
Find out how Australia’s gold industry is protecting its workers, their families and the wider public during the COVID-19 pandemic.