A food program to help Moorabool locals has been ramped up as the pandemic and mass unemployment continues.
Around 60 Bacchus Marsh businesses are either donating food or taking part in a voucher program via the ‘Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward’ charity.
The brainchild of director Judy Dattoma, it began five years ago when she was assisted through a difficult time in her life and wanted to give back.
It has since been identified by Moorabool Council’s Wellbeing plan as a way of filling a gap when other supports weren’t available.
She said food security – and bare pantries – were a huge issue right now.
“The program currently has the support of 47 local businesses that have donation boxes – and another 11 businesses that are voucher redemption sites in Darley and Bacchus Marsh,” Ms Dattoma said.
“Vouchers are provided through local family support services and churches.”
The individually-numbered $10 vouchers can be swapped for food at participating local bakeries, butchers, fruit-and-vegetable suppliers, cafes and take-aways. Businesses are later reimbursed for the vouchers.
In less than a year, more than 230 vouchers have been redeemed at Moorabool businesses.
A $3800 grant from the Bendigo Bank has allowed the charity to buy its coin collection boxes. Westpac bank also contacted the charity to hand over $2000.
“If people see a coin collection box, please dig deep – even if it’s just 10 or 20 cents. It all makes a difference.”
Ms Dattoma said she was in the process of setting up emergency food hampers for people escaping domestic violence and was also hoping to set up a 24-hour ‘public pantry’ for people needing help outside normal hours.
RELATED STORY: King: Keep JobKeeper longer
** Tips: news@mooraboolonline.com.au
With more than 38,500 views in the last week, are you advertising in the right place? Contact sales@mooraboolonline.com.au to see how we can promote your business.
Main Image: Vanilla Rose Cafe in Grant St is among 11 Bacchus Marsh businesses that accept the charity’s voucher scheme. https://www.facebook.com/Bacchusuptopayitforward
Author: Gabrielle Hodson
Online, radio, TV and print journalist since 1993. BA (Hum) majoring in journalism Deakin University. Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/MooraboolOnline I'd love to hear your news tips 🙂 Email -- news@mooraboolonloine.com.au OR send us a message via Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/MooraboolOnline
