OzHarvest Port Macquarie urgently needs passionate individuals who want to give back to the local community, to join their 'yellow army' of volunteers.
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The team have seen a drastic rise in need for food relief, with many charities reporting they do not have enough food to meet the demand.
OzHarvest state manager for NSW, Richard Watson, said that the team have faced huge challenges in the past year.
"OzHarvest Port Macquarie consists of a small team of dedicated volunteers, donating their precious time to help OzHarvest stop good food from going to waste and deliver it to 14 charities and schools in the local area," Mr Watson said.
"But bushfires, floods and the pandemic have caused a huge spike in demand for our service, and our volunteers are struggling to meet that need.
"Since the start of 2020, the team have delivered 325,000 meals to vulnerable communities throughout Port Macquarie, which is around 20,000 meals every month.
"With more volunteers, we hope to increase the amount of food we rescue and make sure it gets to those who need it most."
Julie Trowbridge from Port Macquarie's Neighbourhood Centre has a close relationship with OzHarvest.
"Last year, when OzHarvest Port Macquarie had to move their operations, the Neighbourhood Centre was able to offer them a home," Julie said.
"We run four Food Connect programs in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton, supporting around 120 families every week, but we couldn't do that without the food provided by OzHarvest.
"OzHarvest provides such a valuable service to us and many local communities. The volunteers do such wonderful work, and I hope more people join to help them continue their vital service."
OzHarvest Port Macquarie delivers food five days a week and is looking for volunteers to join on the team on regular days, to help with food rescue from local donors and delivery to charities that help feed people in need.
If you are passionate about fighting food waste and supporting your local community, please get in touch with David Morris at OzHarvest David.morris@ozharvest.org or sign up through the OzHarvest website www.ozharvest.org/volunteer