'We mix Jeffries Organic Compost into the soil and leave some on top. It keeps the soil moist, friable and easy to work with'
Read the story hereDec 15, 2010
Foodbank SA is without a doubt one of those organisations within our state that should be congratulated for its selfless work.
A non-denominational, not for profit organisation, Foodbank SA distributes food and groceries to welfare agencies that feed the hungry. Since its inception in September 2000 it has helped to make the lives of those less fortunate a little easier by giving them an opportunity to access nutritional staple foods when they would otherwise go without.
In the last decade, Foodbank SA has sourced, stored and redistributed over 7.5 million kilograms of edible surplus foods to marginalised South Australians - that's 7,500 tonne of groceries. Most of this food would have made its way to landfill if not for Foodbank’s food-recovery partnerships with the food industry.
Many key sponsors go towards making the work of the organisation possible, providing in-kind and financial sponsorship, and corporate volunteers around the Christmas season helps towards packing 10,000 Christmas food hampers that will this year feed up to 45,000 people.
Having recently celebrated its 10th Birthday in November, Premier Mike Rann commended the organisation for its outstanding work towards reaching out to people and families facing hardship - with an estimated 120,000 South Australians in need receiving support via Foodbank SA each year.
Jeffries has long been an advocate for the fantastic work that Foodbank SA does for hunger-relief in our state. Since March 2009 we have partnered with them and sponsored the collection of food that following donation is deemed unsuitable for distribution to welfare agencies due to being spoiled or unfit for consumption. The material is delivered to the Jeffries state of the art composting facility to process into compost, soil and mulch products. These products are then used by home and vegetable gardeners, landscapers and horticulture farmers to improve their soils.
Leigh Royans, General Manager of Foodbank SA says that although it is disappointing to have to turn away some food, it is important to know that it is being put to good use by being recycled and ultimately turned into compost, soil and mulch products used by farmers and vegetable growers around the state.
“Knowing that we can close the loop by sending our unsuitable food organic material to Jeffries is a good feeling” says Leigh, “We know that ultimately we will reap the benefits of donated food that has originated from this loop.”
It’s organisations as dedicated and passionate as Foodbank SA that really go towards making a difference in our state – and for that, we applaud them.
Learn more about Foodbank SA at www.foodbanksa.com.au
If you are interested in leaving a lasting legacy and contributing towards the work of Foodbank SA, call Leigh Royans, General Manager on (08) 8351 1136 or email leighr@foodbanksa.com.au
