World Food Day: Why do we have to choose either food or housing?
Today, 16TH of October is World Food Day, and it’s an important time to consider those in our community who are experiencing food insecurity.
Recent YouGov research has found that in the last six months, 52% of Western Australians, or 1.1 million people, have skipped a meal in order to save money. The cost of living crisis has forced many in our community, especially those who are already economically vulnerable, to make the decision between paying for food and other essential needs and service.
Australia’s leading food rescue organisation is highlighting this issue by marking today with the inaugural event Million Meals Day, aiming to raise enough funds to provide one million meals for vulnerable Australians.
Joining On The Record’s Jeff Bullen is Lyndon Nillson, WA state manager of SecondBite.
“The mission of SecondBite is to alleviate some of that financial burden that households are experiencing. Once people pay their rent or mortgage, the next thing they think about is food. It’s fair to say the cost of living crisis and housing crisis, Australia wide, is out of control and as I’ve touched on their is a new wave of people seeking experience. Mum and Dad have full time jobs, but the cost of living squeeze is so great that there just isn’t enough food to feed the family.”
An extract from their website; ‘SecondBite is one of the largest food rescue organisations in Australia. It works with growers, manufacturers and retailers to rescue surplus food and distribute it free of charge to more than 1,400 community organisations nationally. Donated fresh produce and pantry staples are then used to provide food relief hampers, pre-prepared meals and community pantries.’
“1.1 Million Australians have to make that choice, whether to skip a meal or fall behind on other essential expenses. 1/4 of Western Australians in the last 6 months have had to skip a meal to get by, that’s what today is all about, such a massive day for us.”
To donate and support SecondBite to reach its mission of providing one million meals visit secondbite.org.
