Food recovery and food security underpin the Delta Community Support Trust’s food bank, which operates from the suburb of Richmond.
“A majority of the food we distribute is repurposed from where it was initially intended,” says Mike Stanley, general manager of the trust. “The food is perfectly fine but for a variety of reasons it hasn’t been sold or used; in essence we are making sure it doesn’t end up in landfill.”
It’s not just an environmental ethos to procuring the food that drives the trust’s foodbank service: there’s a compassionate soul at the heart of it.
“Delta has a strong belief in the power of community,” says Mike. “Our emphasis is on welcoming in and supporting the local neighbourhood. The food bank is one way we get to meet individuals and families, which allows us to form relationships and stand alongside people as they make changes in their lives.”.
Mike shares the story of one woman who came to Delta for food support, was befriended by the team and went on to work part-time work with the trust. That work experience allowed her to have the skills and confidence to apply elsewhere for a full-time position.
“That highlights the transformative power of building community, out of an initial need for someone to have adequate food on the table,” says Mike.
The number of food parcels distributed by the food bank has more than doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic: the total sits at about 3,500 parcels a year. A dedicated team of staff and volunteers ensure the foodbank is open for 4 hours each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“The food rescue sector is no easy undertaking,” says Mike, “but Delta works closely alongside other food banks throughout the city to coordinate the distribution of food and resources, and to ensure that the needs of each community are met.”
Delta now stands as an independent non-profit trust, focused on eradicating food insecurity and fostering a compassionate community. It was established by a local church more than 25 years ago. Other services provided include a donation-based cafe, a friendship group for adults with learning difficulties, a programme that facilitates connection and events for elderly living independently, and – collaboratively with another agency – English lessons for refugee families.
(Nov 2023)
