Central Coast Woolworths shoppers are being asked to dig deep to help people in need this festive season, with the annual OzHarvest Christmas Appeal now in full swing.
Research from Foodbank’s Hunger Report revealed a significant increase in the number of Australians seeking food relief and support as a result of COVID-19, with 3 in 10 Australians experiencing food insecurity for the first time.
Meanwhile the number of Australians seeking food support at least once a week has doubled to 31 per cent when compared to 2019.
This year marks Woolworths’ 12th year of support for Australian food rescue organisation, OzHarvest, and the 6th annual OzHarvest Christmas Fundraising Appeal, with this year’s goal to raise $3M.
This will provide six million meals to Aussies in need.
Woolworths kickstarted the Appeal with a $500,000 donation.
From now until December 24, customers at Woolworths Erina, Gosford and Lisarow who spend over $30 at the self-checkout will have the option to make a donation by rounding-up the cost of their shop to the nearest dollar.
Customers can also choose to make a 50 cent donation when they shop, with each donation helping to provide one nutritious meal to a person in need.
OzHarvest State Manager NSW, Richard Watson said many would be going without a meal this Christmas.
“We’re asking Woolworths customers to help provide vital food relief this holiday season and beyond,” he said.
With the pandemic, devastating bushfires and drought affecting so many Australians in 2020, new research by Woolworths found that more than 40 percent of Aussies believe it is more important to give back this year than in 2019.
Woolworths Erina, Gosford and Lisarow Group Manager, Tim Burr said it was important to remember those who were doing it tough.
“We’re always amazed by the generosity of our customers and we’re encouraging those who are in a position to help to donate and help make a real difference to those who need it most.” He said.
Woolworths’ popular limited-edition Santa Cookies are also back in store, with 50 cents from every packet sold going to OzHarvest.
Source:
Media release, Nov 20
Woolworths