Pork a plenty for West Australians in need

The state’s largest food relief organisation, Foodbank WA has received a huge donation of quality West Australian pork, thanks to the generosity of the state’s largest pork producer Westpork and Dardanup Butchering Company.

Westpork donated the livestock and more than 23.5 tonnes (23,520 kilograms) of pork and Dardanup Butchering Company donated its services resulting in pork being provided to people in need, in a variety of cuts including roasts, diced pork, boneless chops and mince.

Greg Hebble, Foodbank WA CEO said, “meat is typically one of the first things that people remove from their shopping list when money is tight, yet it’s such an important part of a healthy diet.

“It’s not unusual for us to hear that families have gone without eating meat for weeks, months and in some cases years, because they simply can’t afford it. This is a shining example of industry collaboration that is helping the most vulnerable members of our community and we hope that other organisations will follow suit and donate,” said Mr Hebble.

Of the 3.3 million kilograms of food distributed by Foodbank WA last financial year, 88% of product donated by the food and grocery industry and the general public. Meat accounted for just 130,730 kilograms.

Rosyln Giglia, Food Security and Nutrition Manager, Foodbank WA added, “feeding families is not just about filling empty stomachs; it’s also about providing nutritious foods. Being able to provide lean meat that’s high in protein and iron to families’ means we are providing nutrients essential for the growth of children, and promoting a healthy immune system.”

Westpork CEO Neil Ferguson said that Westpork was proud of its long association with Foodbank, but as a producer of livestock could not make such a donation on its own.

“Foodbank WA need 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,” he said.

“Westpork, with Dardanup Butchering Company’s help, has been able to provide a variety of ready-to-cook options including roasts, chops, diced, stir fry, bacon and ham, for Foodbank WA to distribute to those who need it most.”

Foodbank WA provides food and groceries to over 400 registered charities that provide emergency food assistance to people in need in Perth, Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie and Peel. Demand for food continues to outweigh supply.

The Foodbank Hunger Report revealed 1 in 5 West Australians (21%) have experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months, which means they have run out of food and have been unable to afford to buy more for themselves of their families. Front-line charities report that at least 30% more food is needed to meet total demand.

If you are interested in donating to Foodbank WA visit staging.foodbank.org.au or call (08) 9258 9277