Partnership provides pork to families in need

Westpork has teamed up with Dardanup Butchering Company, Hunsa Smallgoods and Greg’s Meat Transport to provide a much needed supply of protein to Foodbank WA, helping feed tens of thousands of West Australians who rely on the hunger relief charity for a meal each month.

WA’s largest pig producer Westpork donated livestock and Dardanup Butchering Company donated its butchering services to provide pork in various cuts. Hunsa smallgoods also helped turn some of the pork into ham and bacon and Greg’s Meat Transport handled the delivery.

Westpork CEO Neil Ferguson said that Westpork could not make such a donation on their own.

“Foodbank WA needed 400g-800g meal solutions to give families that added bit of protein to have with their evening meal. This is where the supply chain partnership was able to deliver the goods.”

“Together we have been able to provide a variety of options including roasts, chops, diced, stir fry, bacon and ham, for Foodbank WA to distribute to those who need it most.”

Foodbank WA Chief Executive Officer Greg Hebble said protein is in high demand all year around, yet it’s very rarely donated so this innovative collaboration is really helping provide a vital source of protein to vulnerable West Australians.

“Every month over 94,000 West Australians who rely on us to feed themselves and their families.  For those who are struggling, meat is often considered a luxury, so they either choose cheaper meat alternatives or go without altogether.”

Foodbank WA provides more than 5.7 million meals a year to people in need throughout Western Australia. More than eighty percent of the food is donated by farmers, wholesalers, retailers, manufactures and the general public. Increasingly, demand for food outweighs supply, so the not-for-profit also raises funds to purchase a steady supply of basic, every day foods.

Ms Hebble said poverty and the high cost of living are the main reasons why people are unable to purchase enough food for themselves and their families. Winter is a particularly difficult time for people, as the increase in utility bill and other expenses means that there is very little money left over for groceries.

“Our aim is to provide a nutritious meal to those who turn to food charity, however we rely heavily on the generosity and support of our food donors.”

“We are therefore incredibly grateful to see these great organisations working together to help the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Mr Hebble.

If you are interested in donating call 08 9258 9277 or email us at info@foodbankwa.org.au.