Grocery shoppers in Hobsons Bay will now notice something different when they approach the supermarket checkout.
Food collection bins have been placed at Coles in Williamstown and Woolworths outlets in Altona North and Spotswood as part of Williamstown Community and Education Centre’s (WCEC) food relief program.
Whether doing their weekly supermarket shop or just picking up a few items after work, shoppers can now help those in need too by donating nonperishable food items into the collection bins located next to the checkout area.
The donated items are then packaged in mixed nonperishable food bags and distributed to disadvantaged members of the community by volunteers.
Food relief can also be accessed at the WCEC’s headquarters at John Kirner House in Williamstown from 10am to 1pm on Mondays and Fridays (ask for Tahlia) and at Altona North Community House on Thursdays from 9am to 12.30pm (ask for Lara).
For perishable items, a fruit and vegetable swap is held in the foyer of Joan Kirner House, while fresh bakery items are available there each morning.
“The generosity of locals is outstanding” said WCEC chief executive Dr Mark Brophy of the reason why the organisation had been able to grow and refine its food relief program over the past few years.
“Every donation makes a substantial difference to locals in need.“
Dr Brophy also acknowledged local businesses, organisations and not-for-profits who had donated to the program such as the Country Women’s Association, Healthcare Foundation, The Village Williamstown, Share the Dignity, Mobil, and EMILY’s List.
