Having food in the pantry is something many people take for granted. When searching for employment, access to food supplies can become a genuine concern.
Food relief programs set up by local organisations are one way to help those in the community who may be going through a difficult period finding employment.
At EPIC Assist (EPIC), we are committed to supporting initiatives that create inclusive communities and greater opportunities for people with disability.
That’s why in the recent round of Community Grants, we chose to support two organisations in the Brisbane area with their food relief services.
Sherwood Neighbourhood Centre aims to alleviate social isolation and assist in the direct relief of poverty, homelessness, illness, disability and isolation in the local community.
Claudia Cunningham, Community Sector Support Coordinator said access to community grants is especially important as the centre will no longer receive government funding from December 2019.
“We appreciate the monetary support from EPIC to continue purchasing food for our community pantry,” Claudia said.
Sherwood Neighbourhood Centre features a careers corner and provides job preparation services including assistance with resumes and interview skills. The centre has referred job seekers to EPIC and we look forward to continuing our work together to further assist people with disability into meaningful employment.
The Evangelical Mission for Salvation International sought a community grant to cover fuel costs to collect food donations for their food relief shop which operates from Woodridge.
Pastor Enoch said the Salvation Hope shop supports many people who are unemployed, low income, elderly and living with a disability.
“Our members pay a nominal amount every 4 months to access free food relief, 6 days a week. This operation is run entirely on the membership fees which fund the rent, electricity, food handling fees and fuel for the van to travel from Woodridge to Morningside each day. However, we struggle to break even, often working in the dark to reduce the energy bill as much as possible,” Pastor Enoch said.
“Our mission is to reduce hunger and support people regardless of their race, gender, economic background, religion or sexual orientation.”
The local EPIC teams are pleased to be strengthening their relationships in the community through connections with these organisations.
Learn more about EPIC’s Community Grants program and how to apply.