Wednesday, 18 June 2025

 Rachel PAYNE (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:47): Last week I had the pleasure of attending the launch of OzHarvest’s south-east hub. It was fantastic to tour the facility, meet the passionate team and hear firsthand about their vital work. I also connected with many of the local charities and service providers who receive meals from OzHarvest. The new hub will support these charities by delivering 6000 extra meals each week to in-need communities across the south-east. It was confronting to learn that 31 per cent are people facing food insecurity who have never needed assistance before. Working families, students and older Victorians are among those now struggling to put food on the table. I encourage everyone to support OzHarvest’s Giving Day, which so happens to fall today, 18 June. All donations will be matched to double the impact. Together we can help them reach their 3 million meal goal. Thank you to OzHarvest and all of their supporters, volunteers and partners for their commitment to fighting food insecurity in our community.