Turning rescued food into delicious meals for hungry people

THE foundation of the Dignity organisation is simple, yet profound.

‘By keeping people, families and community at the heart of everything we do, and providing essential services, such as a safe place, nourishing food, new clothes and education, we walk alongside people on their journey back “home”.’

In the Port Macquarie Hastings region, the flag is flown by Dignity Dishes, which aims to provide food relief and help to prevent people becoming homeless.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that more than 1.3 million households experience food insecurity, meaning they skip meals, reduce food quality, or go days without eating.

Approximately 20 volunteers pick up rescued food from Coles supermarket and deliver it to 15 home cooks, or ‘dishes’, as they are affectionately called.

The ingredients are turned into delicious meals, which are stocked in a freezer at PCYC in Port Macquarie. This is accessible, with no questions asked, during the facility’s opening hours.

1500-2000 meals are produced each month for the cause.

Dignity Dishes spokesperson Lea Lloyd told News Of The Area that “there is no set schedule for our volunteers, everyone does what they can when they can.

“We hear some wonderful stories about the immediate impact of what we’re doing,” Ms Lloyd said..

“Our volunteers are wonderful, as are the PCYC staff.”

The meals are clearly labelled before being frozen; and while they are unable to cater for allergies, vegetarian meals are available.

All the meat and vegetables are donated; however, pantry items are purchased via grants and donations, with the organisation hoping to partner with local businesses to source more food supplies.

Volunteers are always welcome, with no minimum commitment required.

Enquiries to secretary@sunrise-rotary.org.au

By Rachael THORPE