Aiming to take some of the insecurity out of the food donation ‘surprise’ supply chain, Foodbank Australia and General Mills are rethinking the model.
In a model that is unique to Foodbank – General Mills’ Rooty Hill plant in Western Sydney will produce on average 10,000 dedicated meals of Latina Fresh ricotta and spinach agnolotti each month, for the next year, for people in need.
“With one in five Australians already having faced food insecurity at some point last year, widespread unemployment and an economic recession have hit hard and fast for families everywhere,” says Foodbank Australia Chief Executive Officer, Brianna Casey.
“People are doing it tough right now and it’s partnerships like this Collaborative Supply Program that enable us to plan ahead and make every dollar go further.”
Foodbank Australia’s General Manager – National Supply Chain, Michael Davidson adds: “This model allows us to move beyond important, but unpredictable products diverted from landfill to a constant supply of basic essentials like this premium pasta product from General Mills.
“We’ve seen this model operate to great success with other pantry staples and are excited to see this further extension of our partnership with General Mills come to life.”
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Ferraro Dairy Foods based in Tullamarine is supplying the ricotta for the pasta filling.
“At Ferraro Dairy, we are always prepared to help families and people in whatever way we can,” says Mr Ferraro.
“That’s why it’s great to be involved with this initiative and support people who are hurting in multiple ways.”
In addition to product donation, General Mills, through its Foundation has provided Foodbank Australia with a grant of over $200,000 to help Foodbank respond to the significant increase in community need for food staples due to the pandemic.
With many challenges attempting to knock Aussies down, it’s great to see work such as this, being done to support the community.
To donate to Foodbank’s COVID-19 response, visit foodbank.org.au.