“Our inaugural rice drive was a great success, our community dug deep and donated enough rice to sustain us for around four months,” Shepparton Foodshare executive officer Dee Healey said.
“Unfortunately, we still don't have a regular rice donor, therefore (we) are asking our generous community to help again.”
The ‘Great Rice Drive’ is back this year and will run throughout May.
Foodshare is hoping to collect enough rice to provide 25,000 meals locally to those in need.
A 1kg bag of the food staple can make up to eight meals.
But while it’s cheap, nutritious and versatile, it’s something that Shepparton Foodshare struggles to source without a regular rice donor or through its regular food rescues.
Businesses, schools, community groups, service and sporting clubs are encouraged to register as rice collection points for the month of May.
Individuals keen to help can check Foodshare’s website and social media to find a list of locations accepting rice donations.
Shepparton Foodshare has reported an alarming increase in need for its service.
In the financial year to date, it has distributed 40 per cent more food than the same time last year, equating to more than 500,000kg of food, or one million meals.
The two years prior, there had been a 30 per cent increase each year.
“The community’s support via ‘The Great Rice Drive’ will help us keep up with demand by distributing food that recipients can build a nutritious and culturally appropriate meal around,” Ms Healey said.
“A 1kg bag of rice is enough to contribute to up to eight meals, and it is the perfect size to put in our food crates.”
For more information, terms and conditions, and to register for the campaign, visit the Shepparton Foodshare website.
