Murray community members rallied during October’s Anti-Poverty Week, collecting non-perishable food and personal hygiene items to help ease the plight of those in need this festive season.
The ute-load of donations collected through 2017 Murray Community Food Drive efforts, was delivered to the Pinjarra Community Kitchen to assist with meal provision for Murray community members who are homeless or under severe financial constraint.
The food drive is an annual campaign run by the Shire of Murray during Anti-Poverty Week.
Collection points were set up at several locations throughout the district including Pinjarra Senior High School, North Dandalup and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary Schools, Austin Lakes IGA, the Canal Shop in South Yunderup, North Yunderup Café, Spud Shed, Coolup General Store, Blue Wren Café in Dwellingup, Murray Library, Murray Leisure Centre and at the Shire of Murray Administration Office.
Shire of Murray president David Bolt said the Shire was grateful to the community for assisting the drive, not only through donations, but by housing the collection bins at the various locations.
“Poverty and severe hardship affect more than one million Australians,” he said.
“By supporting the food drive and other relative initiatives, community member efforts can help alleviate these issues in our district.”
The Pinjarra Community Kitchen operates every Tuesday from 11am-1pm at the Alliance Church in George Street.
A meal is provided to those in need. Everyone is welcome and shower facilities can also be arranged.
The Pinjarra Community Kitchen is a joint initiative between by the Alliance Church, Family Church, Anglican Church and Uniting Church, with further support provided by St. Vincent De Paul.
Anti-Poverty Week aims to strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and hardship around the world and in Australia and encourage research, discussion and action to address these problems.