Christmas rush on food agency

CHRISTMAS pressures and unemployment have almost doubled the demand for emergency food aid across Geelong.
Geelong Food Relief Centre manager David Manning said the average rate of 30 people a day seeking help had risen as high as 70.
“We partner with different agencies that use our food vouchers. They give them to clients who comes in to use our minimart.
“We’re getting around 50 people a day,’’ Mr Manning said.
“It’s been a huge increase. We average around 30 normally but some days it’s been up to 70.”
Mr Manning said the increase was putting pressure on food donations.
He pleaded for extra public assistance, no matter how big or small.
Mr Manning was uncertain what was driving the increased demand but suspected jobless rates and Christmas shopping were factors.
“I’m hearing there’s greater unemployment in Geelong and that’s probably part of the reason we’re seeing more clients coming in.
“I think the pressure of the season as well – families buy gifts and then it’s tight when it comes to food.”
Mr Manning said the relief centre had a steady stream of donations and also “rescued food” from ALDI supermarkets in Geelong but faced difficulty ensuring supply as client demand sharply rose.
“It’s putting a bit of pressure on food supply,’’ he said. “But we’re always looking for more.
“It doesn’t matter how small or large, we can use always use donations in our minimart.’’
Mr Manning said anyone with donations could phone 5278 6588 or take food to the centre at 8 Freedman St, North Geelong.