RC Karrinyup Visits Foodbank WA
Foodbank is a non-denominational, non-profit organisation, which acts as a pantry to the charities and community groups who feed the hungry. It is a conduit between the food industry’s surplus food and the welfare sector’s need. The organisation is massive operating with a staff of approximately 90 employees and over 3,000 volunteers. It was first established in 1992 in NSW and now has a presence in every state and the Northern Territory with distribution centres in all state capitals as well as a number of regional centres.
The Rotary Club of Karrinyup has had a long association with Foodbank WA having been involved since its inception in the early 1990’s. Our Charter President, Graham Fosbery, served as a Director during those early years. He was also instrumental in introducing Past President Barry to the Foodbank Financial committee around ten years ago to provide professional financial services and guidance during a difficult period at Foodbank, when they were growing rapidly. Barry is still a member of the Financial Committee.
Late last year, when he attended our club to receive our annual donation, Foodbank WA CEO Greg Hebble invited us to visit the new premises near Perth Airport. This week our members enjoyed a fabulous vocational visit to the new headquarters.
During the visit we saw not only Foodbank's wonderful new warehouse, but learned how they work, got a sneak peak at their new branding, toured their new commercial kitchens and enjoyed a lovely meal prepared by the Catergirls from The Esther Foundation.
Members were most impressed also with the School Breakfast Program, which aims to ensure no child in WA starts their day hungry. This is seen as the first step towards improved mental and physical wellbeing and a good education.
It was lovely to have representatives of the District's three Rotaract Clubs (Rotaract Club of Perth, Rotaract Club of Mt Lawley and The Rotaract Club of Subiaco) join us. Our Georgia Rotary Student Program student Lauren and current Inbound and past Outbound Rotary Youth Exchange students, Erik and Vienna, as well as a number of partners of members, also accompanied us on the visit.
