Hello from Kate

These were everyday Australian families just like Leah’s. We're honoured we could support them but this record proves that food stress continues to be a growing issue in our state. Recognising this isn't a sustainable situation, we’re committed to advocating for change. We'll be sharing these statistics with decision-makers to raise awareness about the challenges faced by too many Western Australian families. 

Together, we can create a future where empty plates aren’t an Easter tradition. Thank you for helping us get food to those who needed it most this Easter. 

New safety induction for our Corporate Volunteers

We're excited to share our brand-new safety video designed especially with our corporate volunteers in mind.  Now this isn't your average safety snoozefest. We've packed it with helpful visuals, clear explanations, and even a special guest narrator – James from our Perth warehouse team.

Foodbank values series: respect 

Respect is at the heart of how we work together. It means acting with kindness and attention. Here’s how we show it at Foodbank WA:  

• Caring about the thoughts, feelings, beliefs and rights of others 
• Embracing different perspectives 
• Valuing people’s time and expertise 
• Respecting boundaries 
• Having robust discussions respectfully 

Together, we strive to create a team environment where everyone feels valued and can contribute their best. Please use our values in your discussions with team members. To learn more about our values, you can visit them anytime here. 

For the past decade, a friendly face behind the wheel, Bert, has ensured over 750 kilograms of delicious fruit reach 75 schools each week, bringing a taste of goodness and a healthy boost to countless students. That's a lot of happy and healthy students, thanks in no small part to Bert’s dedication.

As we reflect on 30 years of Foodbank WA and Bert’s retirement, we felt it was time you knew the Perth Airport School Fruit Van’s story. 

The Happiness Habit 

Ever wonder why a smile seems so contagious? Happiness has that power – it ripples outward, touching the lives of those around us. A recent team-building workshop led by Julian Pace, CEO of the Happiness Co., explored this very idea. Here's how we can cultivate happiness not just for ourselves, but for our communities as well. 

The three pillars of happiness 

1. Know yourself, find your why
   Self-discovery is the key that unlocks happiness. Understanding your values and passions lets you make choices aligned with what truly matters to you. It's like fuelling your happiness engine – the stronger your "why," the more fulfilling the journey.
    
2. Strong bonds, supercharge your happiness 
   Humans crave connection. Good friends, supportive colleagues and a loving family are your happiness squad. They boost you up, celebrate wins and catch you when you fall. Invest in these relationships – they're happiness multipliers. 
    
3. Kindness is contagious, spread the joy 
   Happiness isn't a solo act. Helping others through volunteering, random acts of kindness or simply being a good listener creates a ripple effect. A friendly smile or helping hand can make a real difference. Consider volunteering your time at a local organisation that aligns with your values. Whether it's at Foodbank WA helping those facing food stress or a mental health organisation offering support, your contribution can make a real difference. 

Bringing it all together 

The research is clear: happy people are better equipped to handle stress, bounce back from challenges and feel more supported. But happiness isn’t a set of conditions, it’s an active choice to invest in what matters to you. 

By contributing to a happier community, we're not just helping others, we're fostering a more positive environment for everyone, including ourselves. 

Whether you volunteer, donate or simply spread awareness, you can help us build a happier and healthier community today. 

A huge thank you to our volunteers 

We'd like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who signed up to volunteer for the Million Meal Challenge at Optus Stadium on Saturday, 4 May. 

Due to the overwhelming response and incredible support, we've filled all our volunteer positions for the event. Thanks to your enthusiasm, we're well on our way to making the Million Meal Challenge a huge success and raising vital funds to fight hunger in Western Australia. 

Want to stay involved? 

While volunteering spots are full, you can still be a part of the Million Meal Challenge by: 

• Attending the game: Cheer on the West Coast Eagles as they take on Essendon and support a great cause. 

• Donating: Every dollar helps Foodbank WA provide nutritious meals to those facing hunger. Visit our website (link to donation page) to make a difference.

Together, we can make a significant impact on food insecurity in Western Australia. 

It’s the perfect investment for any runner – just $10 per person or free if you’re fundraising for Foodbank WA at the HBF Run For A Reason. 

If you haven’t signed up for the HBF Run for a Reason, it’s not too late. Simply jump onto their website to register today and select Foodbank WA as your charity. 

Thank you both for making such a difference in our community. We’re so grateful to have you on the Foodbank WA team. 

Hearts and Minds from Business News 

Bridging gaps and empowering women, Business News explores how we tackle social challenges and celebrate our changemakers: 

Partnerships bridge remote community gaps 
Explore the critical role of partnerships in addressing the unique challenges of remote communities. 

Women more vulnerable to financial hardship 
Investigate why women are more likely to experience financial hardship and food stress. 

Celebrating women CEOs in the charity sector Celebrate the achievements of female CEOs driving positive change, including our very own Kate O’Hara. 

Liking our social pages or sharing our posts is another way to get behind Foodbank WA and show your support. Follow us!

Foodbank WA acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we work. We recognise their spiritual and cultural connection to country and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.