Leading food rescue organisation, OzHarvest Newcastle is celebrating its tenth year of rescuing and delivering quality surplus food to people in need in the Hunter region. Over the past decade, the Newcastle team has rescued more than 3,000 tonnes of food from local food donors allowing them to deliver more than nine million meals to people in need.

Thanks to the unwavering support from major donors including OzHarvest’s National Food Rescue Partner Woolworths, nib Foundation and Aldi, OzHarvest Newcastle is able to support 119 charitable agencies from Maitland to Swansea. OzHarvest also welcomes partner Port Waratah Coal Service’s recommitment to help keep the iconic yellow vans on the road.

OzHarvest Newcastle Manager, Andrew Turner, says the success of OzHarvest over the last ten years is due to the support of the local community and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. “It’s been really difficult for so many people lately, but seeing the community come together to support one another is truly amazing. At a time when our resources are under pressure and demand for food is high, we rely on our corporate partners, food donors and incredible volunteers to keep our food rescue operations running. The impact of COVID called for a huge team effort to provide emergency food relief services, creating and distributing over 6,700 food hampers and more than 12,800 cooked meals to people in need.”

“We are also thrilled to welcome Port Waratah back on board. The two-year partnership will allow OzHarvest to deliver 200,000 meals providing much needed support to the rising number of people in need in Newcastle,” said Andrew.

Port Waratah Chief Executive Officer Hennie du Plooy said, “Food rescue is more important than ever and we’re pleased our support will enable OzHarvest to not only respond to unprecedented needs of the pandemic, but also continue to meet commitments to 49 charities that rely on them for food, many of which are also our community partners.” 

Food insecurity is on the rise and people across the Hunter are facing hardships they have never faced before. To keep OzHarvest’s wheels turning and help feed vulnerable men, women and children, donate now at ozharvest.org. For every $1 donated, OzHarvest is able to deliver two meals to people in need

To support the local team please contact [email protected] or call +61 2 4940 0767.